The 1871-S is ninth rarest of the Type Two Double Eagles struck at the San Francisco Mint in terms of the total number known to exist.

The quality of strike for the 1871-S Double Eagle is somewhat irregular. For the most part, this is a well struck issue, but many pieces show curiously weak stars on the left obverse in contrast to sharp stars at the right or vice versa. On coins where the stars are irregularly impressed, the border at one side tends to be thinner than at the other. It should be stressed that this is a mint-caused phenomenon and does not affect the coin’s value. 

1871-S Double Eagle: Surface Quality, Luster, and Eye Appeal

The surfaces on most 1871-S Double Eagles show liberal abrasions as these coins tended to be roughly transported in bags. This is an issue which has very good luster. It ranges from extremely frosty to a satiny, slightly granular texture. The coloration on uncleaned 1871-S Double Eagles can vary from rich rose gold to a deeper greenish coloration. This date can be found with above average eye appeal and very pleasing coins make good San Francisco type coins.