During this period, the San Francisco Mint was focused on meeting the demand for silver dollars as constituted by the Bland-Pittman Act, thus minting fewer $20 gold pieces than usual throughout the late 1870s and early 1880s. Those that were minted entered circulation immediately where they were used and abused. The present piece is a well-preserved example with only 18 PCGS examples graded finer. Wheat gold surfaces bear a mild patina of gold-grey coloration which is typical of Fairmont coins. A strong strike is enhanced by pleasing cartwheel luster. Grade-defining chatter and bag marks are noticeable. - Liberty Head $20
