While generally regarded as a very common date, the 1874 Double Eagle is actually scarcer than most collectors realize. This is the most difficult of the ‘late date’ Philadelphia Type Two Double Eagles and it is harder to locate than some of the more highly regarded issues from the 1860’s. 

The quality of strike seen on this issue is often very bold. It is not uncommon to find examples with fully defined radial lines in the stars, sharp hair detail on the head of Liberty and bold wing tips. On some pieces, the denticles show some minor area of weakness, probably as a result of the die having deteriorated. 

1874 Double Eagles: Marks, Luster, and Coloration

1874 Double Eagles are nearly always found with heavily marked surfaces. Most pieces show deep marks concentrated in the obverse fields and, to a lesser degree, on the reverse. The luster on the typical example is very good with a rich, frosty texture. Coloration on uncleaned 1874 Double Eagles ranges from bright green-gold to a paler rose and gold shade. Locating an 1874 Double Eagle with good eye appeal is difficult. Any example which shows minimal marks, good luster and no signs of having been cleaned is greatly prized by collectors and invariably trades for a strong premium.