The 1899-S is popular due to its being the last San Francisco Mint double eagle struck in the 19th century.

Expert’s Corner: 1899-S Double Eagle

The 1899-S is a good issue for the collector who wants a 19th century San Francisco double eagle in higher grades. I like MS63 coins. It can sometimes be located even in MS64 with a little effort. I find MS65’s to be slightly undervalued and have not handled many of these in the last decade.

The strike on the 1899-S varies from coin to coin. Some are fully struck with sharp details seen at the centers and borders. Others are weak on the lower obverse border and at the centers of the wings. The surfaces are nearly always abraded with many marks in the fields. Some show mint-made copper spots. The luster is excellent with the typical coin showing an intense, frosty appearance. A few semi-proof-like and even fully proof-like pieces are known. These are usually very “baggy” and have an inferior appearance as a result. The natural coloration ranges from a rich orange-gold hue to rose or rose-green.