The 1872-S is one of the more obtainable Type Two Double Eagles struck at the San Francisco Mint.

This date is not as well struck as some of the other San Francisco Double Eagles from this era. On the obverse, the date is thin and appears weaker than usual. The stars at the top of the obverse are sometimes flat and it is rare for all the stars to show their radial lines. Liberty’s hair is flat as well. On the reverse, the strike is a bit sharper. 

1872-S Double Eagle: Surface Abrasions and Collector Premiums

The typical 1872-S Double Eagle has very heavily abraded surfaces. The luster is mostly frosty with a slightly subdued appearance. Uncleaned pieces will display pleasing rose-green or orange-gold coloration and such coins command a premium. This is a date which can prove hard to locate an example with good overall eye appeal. An 1872-S Double Eagle which has relatively clean surfaces, a sharper than usual strike and no signs of cleaning is hard to locate; such coins command a strong premium among collectors.