1853-O: This is an odd date as it is not rare in terms of the total known to exist, but it is exceedingly rare in Uncirculated with just four or five accounted for. It is not hard to locate an 1853-O in grades up to AU55 although most of the ones graded by PCGS and NGC show below-average eye appeal. A properly graded AU58 with choice surfaces and natural color is about the best available to collectors. As with the 1852-O, the strike seen on this date is always weak on the stars and the reverse is sharper than the obverse. This Mint State example is the best we have had the opportunity to handle and will no doubt be a cornerstone to any New Orleans gold coin collection. It shows full mint skin with unusually well struck obverse devices. Almost flawless reverse, sharp detail with buttery smooth fields. Overall bright gold color sets this conditional rarity off. Truly a rare opportunity to own a New Orleans gold coin with premium quality eye appeal. Tied for Second finest grade known with only a few coins graded in Mint State 61 – I would bet this coin is as nice as some of those examples!
1853-O $10 Gold Liberty MS60
October 7, 2015