Original, uncleaned pieces exhibit rose and green-gold hues. The level of eye appeal for this date is actually slightly below average. This is due to the fact that so many 1894-S double eagles are very heavily abraded and have impaired luster as a result. On the coins that are not as severely marked, the eye appeal can be well above average as the result of excellent luster and lovely rich color.

The 1894-S is common in MS60 through MS62. It is slightly scarce in MS64, as about 460 have been seen. Gems are very rare. About two dozen coins graded MS65 are known to me including one from the Saddle Ridge Hoard. This was the last date included in the Saddle Ridge Hoard.

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