Liberty 20 Double Eagles
Learn More About Liberty 20 Double Eagles
Liberty $20 Double Eagle gold coins were minted from 1850 until 1907 and played a vital role in the U.S. economy during the 19th century. These coins were used primarily in international trade coin and as savings vehicle for the wealthy, due to the high gold content.
Although many coins were lost during the gold confiscation in 1933, many coins were stored for decades in European vaults.
Liberty Double Eagle Design
The obverse of the Liberty Double Eagle features a left-facing portrait of Lady Liberty, wearing a coronet inscribed with the word "LIBERTY." This design is emblematic of the neoclassical style.
The reverse showcases a majestic bald eagle, holding arrows and an olive branch, symbolizing military strength and peace. Above the eagle's head are 13 stars, representing the original colonies, and a banner inscribed with "E PLURIBUS UNUM" ("Out of many, one").
The denomination is shown as "TWENTY D." on the reverse until 1877 when it was changed to read "TWENTY DOLLARS."
The coin's composition is 90% gold and 10% copper, weighing approximately 33.436 grams and containing .9675 troy ounces of pure gold.
Certified $20 Double Eagles
Certified Liberty $20 Double Eagles are authenticated and graded by professional third-party grading services such as PCGS, NGC or ANACS.
The certification process ensures the coin's authenticity, grade, and preservation.
Certified Double Eagles have undergone a rigorous authentication process to ensure they are genuine and not counterfeits.
These coins have undergone a rigorous authentication process to ensure they are genuine and not counterfeits.
Once graded, these coins are encased in a protective holder, which prevents damage and maintains their certified grade.
Many investors see certified Liberty Double Eagles as a stable investment due to their historical significance, gold content, and numismatic value.
The certification provides an extra layer of assurance for investors that the coin is authentic and correctly graded. This helps eliminate doubts when buying or selling.
Certified coins are easier to sell in the marketplace due to their established grade and authenticity, making them more liquid than raw or uncertified coins.
Liberty Double Eagle Investment
Today, these coins are a trusted store of wealth due to the intrinsic value of the gold content.
Each Double Eagle Gold coin was minted with .9675 troy ounces of 21.6k gold, or .900 purity.
A small amount of copper was added to provide strength for circulation. As a tangible investment, Pre-1933 gold coins are highly liquid. The market for these coins spans both investors and collectors.
Millions of Liberty $20 gold coins were melted down after 1933 when the U.S. government recalled gold. The ones that have survived, carry some numismatic premium due to their rarity, especially those in higher grades or with specific mint marks or low mintage years.
Historical Significance
The sudden influx of gold from California Gold Rush dramatically increased the nation's gold supply. Prior to this period, the largest denomination gold coins in circulation was the $10 Eagle, but the vast amount of gold created such a surplus that a larger denomination was warranted to handle high-value transactions more efficiently.
To meet the growing demand, Congress passed the Coinage Act of 1849, which authorized the creation of the $20 Double Eagle. The first pattern for the coin was struck in 1849, and production for circulation began in 1850.
