1873 $20 Liberty Head Double Eagle, Open 3 PCGS MS60

The 1873 Open 3 is a popular—and more affordable—variety in the Liberty head double eagle series, one that would be an excellent addition to your collection. Please take a look at the images provided of this offering, as well as the photos below from PCGS that show you specifically how the Open 3 is different from the Closed 3 date for the 1873 issue. PCGS has graded 1,118 of this variety in MS60 with 6,274 finer. Collectors Universe prices this 1873 variety at $3,150.00 in MS60.

Close-up view of the 1873 Double Eagle Open 3/Closed 3 date comparison. Photo courtesy of the PCGS website.

Gordon Wrubel writes, "Liberty $20 gold pieces of 1873 were minted with both 'Open 3' and 'Closed 3'. For the Philadelphia Mint issues the Open 3 is common and the Closed 3 is scarce. But how can one tell the difference? Look at the larger ball at the lower curve of the 3. The diameter of the ball is about the same size as the opening and would just pass through it. On the closed 3, the lower ball would not pass through the constricted opening. As a group, Type II Liberty $20s(1866-1876) are rather hard to find in Mint condition. But if you are for looking for that special coin for your type set, the condition census above shows that the 1873, Open 3 is one of your most likely candidates."