1856-S $20 Liberty Gold Double Eagle Shipwreck SS Central America No Serif, Left S PCGS MS63

1856-S $20 Liberty Gold Double Eagle Shipwreck SS Central America No Serif, Left S PCGS MS63

PCGS MS63 | Rare “No Serif, Left S” variety from the SS Central America | Tough 1856-S date – fewer recovered than 1857 | PCGS Pop: Scarce in Mint State

• Year: 1856
• Weight: 33.44 grams (1.075 troy oz)
• Purity: .900 fine gold
• Type: Pre-33 U.S. Gold
• Mint: San Francisco (S mintmark)
• Face Value: $20
• Grade: PCGS MS63
• Variety: No Serif, Left S (Non-Spike Shield)
• Origin: SS Central America Shipwreck
• Pedigree: Certified shipwreck recovery with sunken treasure provenance

This 1856-S $20 Liberty Gold Double Eagle is a rarity among shipwreck coins—a premium PCGS MS63 example recovered from the famous SS Central America wreck. Known as the “Ship of Gold,” the SS Central America sank in 1857 carrying tons of California Gold Rush treasure, much of it in the form of $20 Liberty coins struck at the San Francisco Mint. But here’s what makes this coin especially noteworthy: it’s from 1856, not the more common 1857, and features the elusive “No Serif, Left S” variety.

Unlike the well-known "Spike Shield" or Narrow Serif varieties seen in most 1857-S examples, this 1856-S variant has subtle but distinct differences—making it a tougher, more desirable target for advanced collectors. The fact that far fewer 1856-S coins were recovered from the shipwreck further enhances its scarcity and market appeal.

This particular coin showcases strong strike detail, glowing golden luster, and exceptional eye appeal for the grade. It carries all the mystique of a sunken treasure piece, with the added bonus of being one of the tougher date-and-variety combinations from the entire SS Central America recovery.

For the serious collector or investor, this is not just a beautiful gold coin—it’s a rare historic artifact, a conversation piece, and a tangible link to the California Gold Rush and maritime history. Its certified pedigree, variety rarity, and Mint State condition position it as a standout in any collection.