During the first two months of the year, 1866-S Double Eagles were struck with No Motto (i.e., Type One) reverse. Beginning in March of 1866, nearly three quarters of a million of the 1866-S Double Eagles were struck using the new Motto “In God We Trust” (i.e., Type Two) on the reverse. Since there are two distinct issues, the 1866-S Double Eagle is known as a Transitional Issue. Coins considered Transitional Issues are extremely popular with collectors.

Strike Characteristics & Surface Quality

The 1866-S With Motto Double Eagle typically displays a rather soft strike. On the obverse, the hair below Liberty’s tiara, on her bun, and the area above her eye usually are somewhat flat. The stars tend to be sharper and examples with full radial lines with the stars are not uncommon. The reverse will often show weakness on the shield and at the innermost parts of the wings. The borders are typically weak with the reverse rim showing a pronounced beveled appearance. The weaknesses are products of the striking process and do not affect the value of the coins showing this phenomenon. The surfaces on most examples are very heavily abraded with deep marks in the fields and on the devices. The luster is often below average and shows a peculiar granular frosty texture which is unique to this issue. Original, uncleaned pieces will display rich orange-gold and rose hues. These typically command strong premiums.