$20 Gold Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle – NGC MS61

The Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle stands as one of the most magnificent achievements in American numismatic history, born from President Theodore Roosevelt's vision to transform America's coinage into true works of art. In 1904, Roosevelt expressed his discontent with the existing coins, describing them as having an "artistically atrocious hideousness," and sought to create currency that would properly reflect America's growing status as a world power.

This vision led Roosevelt to make an unprecedented decision—commissioning Augustus Saint-Gaudens, a renowned private sculptor, to design the new coin. Before this revolutionary choice, U.S. coins had exclusively been designed by employees of the U.S. Mint. Saint-Gaudens began preliminary designs in 1905, embarking on what would become one of America's most beloved coins.

The collaboration between President Roosevelt and Saint-Gaudens occurred during a transformative period in American history. The United States was expanding economically, with new technologies enabling increased agricultural exports, and improved infrastructure furthering trade across the nation. America had arrived on the world stage, and Roosevelt wanted a symbol worthy of this new status.

The journey to create the Double Eagle was fraught with challenges. The original 1907 Ultra High Relief version featured deeply sculpted details that proved too difficult for mass production. This was followed by a 1907 High Relief version with slightly reduced relief, still struck in limited numbers. Finally, a Standard Relief design was implemented for practicality and mass production. In 1908, the phrase "IN GOD WE TRUST" was added above the sun on the reverse, creating the "With Motto" variety that continued until the coin's production ended in 1933.

Today, the Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle represents more than just a coin—it embodies a pivotal moment in American artistic, economic, and cultural history. Each specimen tells the story of Roosevelt's ambition, Saint-Gaudens' genius, and America's emergence as a global power. The $20 Gold Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle graded NGC MS61 continues this legacy, offering collectors and investors a tangible connection to this transformative era in American history.

Design Features

The obverse of the Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle features a bold departure from traditional designs with its dynamic portrayal of Liberty. Lady Liberty strides confidently forward against a background of the sun's rays, symbolizing enlightenment and national progress. She holds a torch high in her right hand, representing enlightenment, while an olive branch in her left hand signifies peace. Liberty's flowing gown and hair create a sense of movement that was revolutionary for American coinage of the time. The word "LIBERTY" arches above her, while the minting year appears at the bottom. Surrounding Liberty are stars representing the states of the union.

The reverse showcases a majestic eagle in flight, soaring above the sun's rays—a powerful representation of American freedom and aspiration. The bird's wings spread wide, capturing a moment of dynamic motion that complements the obverse design. The inscriptions "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" and "TWENTY DOLLARS" frame the upper and lower portions of the coin, respectively. The addition of "IN GOD WE TRUST" in 1908 versions appears above the rising sun, completing this iconic design that numismatic experts frequently hail as the pinnacle of American coinage artistry.

Product Highlights

• Metal Type: Gold
• IRA Eligible: No
• Obverse: Lady Liberty striding forward holding a torch and olive branch, with "LIBERTY" above and stars surrounding her figure.
• Reverse: Eagle in flight above the sun's rays with "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" and "TWENTY DOLLARS" inscriptions.

Investment Appeal

The $20 Gold Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle NGC MS61 represents a compelling investment opportunity that combines historical significance with intrinsic value. As one of the most beautiful coins ever produced by the U.S. Mint, it holds enduring appeal for both serious collectors and investors seeking portfolio diversification through precious metals.

The NGC MS61 grade indicates a coin with moderate wear on the high points but still retaining much of its original luster and detail. This accessible grade point allows collectors to own a piece of numismatic history without the premium commanded by higher-grade specimens, making it an excellent entry point for those beginning their investment journey.

Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle carries historical weight as the last series of gold coins produced before the U.S. government's gold recall of 1933. This historical significance adds a premium to its inherent gold value, potentially providing greater stability during economic uncertainties. Many investors particularly value pre-1933 gold coins as they represent a tangible connection to America's gold standard era.

For the discerning collector, this coin offers the perfect blend of artistry, history, and value. Whether building a comprehensive numismatic collection or diversifying an investment portfolio, the Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle stands as a testament to American artistic achievement and a store of value with global recognition and enduring appeal.