The mintage figure for the 1885-CC is consider ably lower than it is for any other double eagle struck at the Carson City Mint in the 1880s. It is the scarcest Carson City double eagle from this decade, especially in higher grades.

Expert’s Corner: 1885-CC Double Eagle

I can remember when the 1885-CC was one of the hardest Carson City double eagles to find. Today it is a bit easier to locate, but I still have a hard time finding nice, wholesome examples for customers.

The strike on the 1885-CC is not as good as it is on the 1882-CC, 1883-CC and 1884-CC double eagles. While the hair of Liberty is often fully defined, there are usually areas of weakness at the top of the head and on the bun. The lower portion of the obverse often appears to be weaker than the upper part, and the rim on the lower obverse (from around 4:00 to 8:00) may show noticeable weakness. The obverse stars are nearly always weak at the centers, especially those on the left. The reverse has a sharper strike except at the value which may be softly impressed. 

Collecting the 1885-CC Double Eagle – Surface Traits, and Rarity

The reverse edge is partially or fully beveled in appearance. The surfaces show deep, detracting abrasions in the fields and sometimes on the devices as well. They may also show some mint-made copper spots. The luster is above average. It ranges from frosty to nearly fully proof-like in texture. The coloration on uncleaned, original 1885-CC double eagles is green-gold or yellow-gold, and there are a few pieces known that have rich, lovely rose-gold hues. The eye appeal varies greatly. Many are not well struck and have impaired luster as a result of heavy abrasions. But there are a few very nice pieces offered from time to time, making it possible for the collector to find a piece that is well detailed, frosty and lightly marked.