The 1904 is, by a large margin, the most common Type Three double eagle in terms of its overall rarity and in premium quality grades.

Expert’s Corner: 1904 Double Eagle

This date is seemingly everywhere and there are as many as 750,000-1,000,000+ known. For many type collectors, the chance to obtain a spectacular gem uncirculated Liberty Head double eagle at an affordable price is irresistible. With MS66 examples of the 1904 priced within reason, this date is in great demand as a type coin.

This issue was struck in large quantity and well made. The typical example shows a strong strike at both the centers and the borders. Some are seen with weakness on the obverse stars, but the collector will be able to find one bearing a sharp strike with no problems. The surfaces tend to be abraded; however, there are some very clean 1904 double eagles known. The luster varies from very frosty to slightly grainy in texture. Some semi-proof-like and fully proof-like coins are known and examples with lightly marked fields command a strong premium. The coloration ranges from orange-gold to rose to medium green-gold. The level of eye appeal is above average, and it is easy to locate a gem quality example with a sharp strike and clean, original surfaces.