Preserving History: Expert Conservation Guide for the 1872-CC $20 Double Eagle Cancelled Obverse Die

The Grave Responsibility of Preservation

There’s nothing more heartbreaking than seeing history corrode before our eyes. When I first examined the 1872-CC $20 Liberty Double Eagle Cancelled Obverse Die – a genuine Carson City Mint artifact that spent 130 years buried in Nevada’s soil – I felt the weight of its story. This isn’t just steel; it’s the heartbeat of American westward expansion frozen in metal. As collectors, we’re temporary guardians of such treasures. Let me share how to preserve this time capsule’s numismatic value for generations yet unborn.

Historical Significance: A Relic From the Comstock Lode

Picture this: January 1999, workers breaking ground near the old Carson City Mint uncover a cache of discarded dies. Among them – this 2.5″ high steel giant bearing witness to the Comstock Lode’s silver fever. What makes this die a numismatic holy grail?

• A bold chiseled ‘X’ cancellation mark declaring its retirement
• The distinctive single ‘C’ mint mark stamped proudly on Liberty’s neck
• Mineral-rich soil deposits creating unique coloration patterns
• The precise 1 5/16″ working surface that struck legendary coins

“Carson City Mint double eagles are rare enough… but having a die is an almost impossible situation.” – Q. David Bowers

Only two 1872-CC $20 obverse dies are known to exist. This survivor’s cancellation marks tell a story of deliberate retirement – a finality that makes its resurrection from the earth all the more miraculous.

The Four Horsemen of Artifact Degradation

1. Toning: Nature’s Signature

That gorgeous steel-gray patina with whispers of oxidation? That’s Nevada’s soil writing its autobiography across the die’s surface. Never disturb this natural toning – it’s the very soul of the artifact’s authenticity. Cleaning would erase:

• Mineral “fingerprints” confirming its burial history
• Subtle color gradients documenting environmental shifts
• Microscopic soil particles archaeologists study

2. Oxidation: The Silent Thief

While stable now, steel remains vulnerable. The secret? Create a microclimate that says “no vacancy” to corrosion:

• Maintain humidity below 40% – think desert dryness
• Limit temperature swings to ±5°F
• Handle with cotton gloves – skin oils are oxidation accelerants

My go-to solution? Oxygen absorbers paired with silica gel in an archival enclosure.

3. PVC Damage: The Collector’s Nightmare

Beware the siren song of cheap holders! PVC’s plasticizers will wage chemical warfare:

• Acidic green corrosion blooms within 24 months
• Permanent “spiderweb” etching on surfaces
• Costly professional conservation required

When in doubt, sniff your holders – that telltale vinyl scent means danger.

4. The Cleaning Temptation: Resist!

Those gold-colored traces in the X marks? Tool transfer, not secret restrikes. Regardless:

• Chemicals = irreversible damage
• Ultrasonic baths = microfractures
• Microfiber cloths = microscopic scratches

The golden rule? Let conservators use gentle nitrogen bursts at ≤15 PSI – anything else murders patina.

Proper Storage Solutions: Beyond the Slab

Archival-Grade Enclosures

For a dimensional treasure like this, standard slabs simply won’t cut it. Invest in:

• Custom-fitted PTFE trays – the museum standard
• Argon-filled display cases with UV-blocking glass
• Built-in silica gel compartments (replace annually)

Environmental Controls

Create a sanctuary worthy of this relic:

• Darkness: More precious than gold for preservation
• Steady 65-68°F – avoid attics and basements
• Silicone foam vibration isolation – think “artifact mattress”

The Restrike Controversy: Ethics vs Curiosity

The forums lit up with restrike debates – but at what cost? I adamantly agree with the owner:

“I take a VERY dim view of stressing a 140-year-old die to make some re-strikes… it was ACTUALLY DEAD/BURIED in the ground for almost 130 years!”

Striking new coins risks:

• Catastrophic cracks spreading from cancellation marks
• Edge spalling – the death knell for delicate surfaces
• Loss of precious particulate evidence in design crevices

Instead, employ cutting-edge 0.01mm resolution 3D scanning – all the study, none of the damage.

Documenting Provenance: Protecting Future Value

Provenance isn’t just paperwork – it’s the artifact’s life story. Preserve:

• Annual high-res photos under 5600K LED lighting
• The 2012 ANA Summer Sale documentation (Lot #11772)
• Environmental monitoring logs – humidity and temperature data

This paper trail could mean the difference between “interesting artifact” and “museum-grade numismatic treasure.”

Conclusion: An Enduring Legacy

While valued at $9,500 in 2012, this die’s true worth lies in its untouched preservation. That magnificent patina? That’s Nevada’s kiss upon steel. Those cancellation marks? The mint’s final word. By following these protocols, you’re not just a collector – you’re a guardian of history, ensuring this icon survives to awe collectors in 2172.

“Without a doubt this will be a show-stopper… What a nice go-with this will be to a collection of Carson City Mint coinages.” – Q. David Bowers

Remember: The greatest conservation skill is knowing when NOT to act. Honor the patina. Respect the corrosion. Let time’s marks speak their truth.

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