$20 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle

The $20 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle is one of the most iconic American gold coins, minted from 1907 to 1933. Designed by renowned sculptor Augustus Saint-Gaudens, this coin is celebrated for its stunning artistry and historical significance. It is a part of the United States' gold coinage and remains highly sought after by collectors and investors alike.

Why is the Coin Famous?

The $20 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle is renowned for its beautiful and intricate design, which features Lady Liberty striding forward with a torch and an olive branch on the obverse, and a majestic eagle in flight on the reverse. Its popularity is further bolstered by its historical context, as it was minted during a transformative period in American history, including the Great Depression and the end of the gold standard in 1933. The coin's aesthetic appeal and historical significance make it a prized possession for numismatists and investors.

Who Designed the Coin and Why?

The coin was designed by Augustus Saint-Gaudens, a preeminent American sculptor, at the behest of President Theodore Roosevelt, who sought to beautify American coinage. Saint-Gaudens' design was intended to symbolize liberty, progress, and America’s burgeoning status as a global power. The obverse side of the coin features Lady Liberty, while the reverse showcases a soaring eagle, both embodying the ideals of freedom and strength.

Coin Specifications and Symbolism

• Weight: 33.436 grams
• Gold Content: 90% gold (0.9675 troy oz of pure gold)
• Diameter: 34 mm
• Thickness: 2.41 mm
• Edge: Lettered, inscribed with "E Pluribus Unum"

The $20 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle was minted at several U.S. Mint facilities, including Philadelphia (no mint mark), Denver (D), and San Francisco (S). Certain years and mint marks can significantly affect the value of these coins. For example, the 1927-D is extremely rare and highly valuable, often fetching substantial premiums at auctions.

$20 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle Value

The value of a $20 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle can vary widely depending on its condition, year of mintage, and mint mark. Coins from years with higher mintages and common mint marks generally trade closer to their melt value, which is based on the current price of gold. However, coins from rarer years or specific mints, such as the 1907 Ultra High Relief or the 1933 Double Eagle, can command prices far exceeding their intrinsic gold value.

The coin contains 0.9675 troy ounces of pure gold, so its intrinsic value is directly tied to today's gold market price. However, numismatic factors can significantly increase a coin's value. For instance, coins in mint-state condition (e.g., MS65 or higher) or those with historical significance can attract a premium.

The $20 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle remains one of the most admired and valuable American gold coins, cherished for its artistic merit and historical importance. Its fluctuating value, influenced by the gold market and numismatic demand, makes it a compelling investment and a treasured piece of American heritage.

$20 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle Auctions