1923 $20 AU58 Certification #50331637, PCGS #9175

David Akers (1975/88)

Although the 1923 is widely considered to be a "common" date, it is really only deserving of that status in MS-63 or lower condition. In MS-64 condition, this issue is surprisingly difficult to locate and true gems are far more rare than all but the long time specialists in this series realize. Above the MS-65 level, the 1923 is a major rarity and I do not recall ever seeing one that I would grade a full MS-67. Other specialists have reported seeing a very few such specimens, however.

The 1923 is generally very well struck, although many, if not most, specimens are a little weak on the Capitol building and the stars beneath it. The rim is usually sharp and square, often with a partial wire edge. All specimens are fully frosty. The color is typically a light to medium orange or coppery gold. Some examples show evidence of "mounding" or die bulging beneath the topmost stars.