After the huge mintage figure for 1904 double eagles from Philadelphia, it is understandable that there was little demand in 1905. The 1905-P is very popular due to a small mintage of only 58,910 business-strikes; it is the second rarest 20th century Liberty Head double eagle after the 1902.

Expert’s Corner: 1905 Double Eagle

In my experience, this is an extremely difficult date to find in higher grades. I have only handled a few in MS64 with none finer. As with most of the 20th century Philadelphia double eagles of this design, I find the 1905 to be undervalued in MS63 and higher grades.

Most 1905 double eagles are well struck at the centers. This includes sharp definition on the hair of Liberty and the feathers of the eagle. Many are weakly struck at the borders. This is seen most often on the obverse which can be flat at various locations on the denticles. The surfaces invariably are heavily marked. The luster is below average with a dull and somewhat grainy texture. This lackluster appearance and the aforementioned heavy abrasions are the main reasons why business strike 1905 double eagles tend to have below-average eye appeal. It is hard to find examples that have natural color, and on those that do, the hues are often a somewhat dark greenish-gold. 

1905 Double Eagle: Rare Proofs and Exceptional Eye Appeal Challenges

A small number are more vibrant and have a nice orange-gold color. These are considered desirable by collectors. It is very hard to find a 1905 double eagle with good overall eye appeal, and premium quality pieces command a strong premium.

There were 92 proof double eagles made in 1905. The survival rate is lower than it was in 1904. There are an estimated forty proofs known. Gems are extremely rare, and the finest known is graded PR67 CAM by NGC.

The 1905 double eagle is seen most often in the middle AU grades up to MS60/61. It is scarce in MS62 and very scarce in MS63. There are around 15 or so known in properly graded MS64. The finest known to me is graded MS65 by NGC.