$20 Liberty Double Eagles

The $20 Liberty Double Eagle, often referred to simply as the Liberty Head Double Eagle, is one of the most iconic gold coins in American history. Minted from 1849 to 1907, this coin features a design that pays homage to American liberty and prosperity.

Why is the Coin Famous?

The $20 Liberty Double Eagle is notable for its historical significance and substantial gold content. Created during the California Gold Rush, this coin symbolized the wealth and growth of the United States during the 19th century. Its large size and gold content made it a popular choice for international trade and investment, and it remains a prized piece for collectors due to its historical context and attractive design.

Who Designed the Coin and Why?

The $20 Liberty Double Eagle was designed by James B. Longacre, the Chief Engraver of the United States Mint at the time. Longacre's design on the obverse side features Lady Liberty wearing a coronet inscribed with the word "LIBERTY," surrounded by 13 stars representing the original colonies. The reverse side showcases a heraldic eagle with a shield, holding an olive branch and arrows, symbolizing peace and readiness for war. This design was intended to reflect the nation's values of liberty, strength, and unity.

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: Reeded

The $20 Liberty Double Eagle carries mint marks that can help identify the mint of origin. For example, 'CC' indicates the Carson City Mint, 'S' stands for the San Francisco Mint, and 'O' represents the New Orleans Mint. Some mint marks and years are rarer and more sought after than others.

$20 Liberty Double Eagle Value

The value of a $20 Liberty Double Eagle can vary significantly based on its condition, year of mintage, and mint mark. Coins from certain years, such as the 1870-CC or the 1861-O, are particularly rare and can command significant premiums over their melt value. Generally, coins with lower mintages or those in exceptional condition (e.g., MS60 or MS65) can be significantly more valuable. The intrinsic value of these coins is also tied to their gold content, with each coin containing approximately 0.9675 troy ounces of pure gold.

The $20 Liberty Double Eagle stands as a testament to America's rich history and its values of liberty and prosperity. Its large size, substantial gold content, and beautiful design make it a favorite among collectors and investors. With values fluctuating based on gold prices and numismatic premiums, this coin is both an investment and a cherished piece of American heritage.

$20 Liberty Double Eagles Auctions