$20 Gold Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle – PCGS MS61

In the early 20th century, a remarkable collaboration between President Theodore Roosevelt and renowned sculptor Augustus Saint-Gaudens gave birth to one of America's most iconic coins: the $20 Gold Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle. This masterpiece of numismatic art emerged from Roosevelt's vision to elevate American coinage to the artistic heights of ancient Greek coins.

Saint-Gaudens, already battling cancer, took on the challenge with characteristic passion. His design for the Double Eagle would become his swan song, a final gift to the nation he loved. The coin's obverse features Lady Liberty striding forward, torch in hand, symbolizing progress and enlightenment. Behind her, the U.S. Capitol dome rises, while rays of sunlight burst forth, illuminating a new dawn for American coinage.

The Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle represented more than just a new coin design; it was a statement of American ideals and aspirations at the turn of the century. The flowing lines and high relief of Saint-Gaudens' original concept pushed the boundaries of minting technology, requiring multiple strikes to fully realize the design's intricate details.

Though the Mint eventually had to modify the relief for practical production, the coin's beauty remained undiminished. From its introduction in 1907 until the end of the gold standard era in 1933, the Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle stood as a testament to American artistry and economic might.

The coin's history took a dramatic turn in 1933 when President Franklin D. Roosevelt's Executive Order 6102 recalled gold from circulation. Most 1933-dated Double Eagles were melted down, instantly transforming the few survivors into numismatic legends. The saga of these rare 1933 specimens, including legal battles and record-breaking auctions, has only added to the mystique of the Saint-Gaudens series.

Today, the $20 Gold Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle remains a coveted treasure among collectors and investors alike. Its timeless design, historical significance, and inherent gold value combine to make it one of the most sought-after coins in the numismatic world.

Design Features

The obverse of the Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle is a study in neoclassical beauty. Lady Liberty strides forward, her flowing gown reminiscent of ancient Greek sculptures. In her right hand, she holds aloft a torch, symbolizing enlightenment, while her left hand grasps an olive branch, representing peace. The rays of the rising sun behind her signify the dawn of a new era. Encircling this central figure are 46 stars (later increased to 48), representing the states of the Union.

The reverse design is equally majestic, featuring a young eagle in flight against a rising sun. This bold, naturalistic depiction was a departure from the heraldic eagles common on earlier coins. The inscriptions "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" and "TWENTY DOLLARS" frame the eagle, while "IN GOD WE TRUST" (added in 1908) appears above the sun. The coin's edge is adorned with stars and the motto "E PLURIBUS UNUM," completing this symphony in gold.

Product Highlights

• Metal Type: Gold
• IRA Eligible: No
• Obverse: Lady Liberty striding forward with torch and olive branch, sun rays and Capitol in background
• Reverse: Flying eagle with rising sun, inscriptions "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" and "TWENTY DOLLARS"

Investment Appeal

The $20 Gold Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle stands as a paragon of numismatic investment. Its intrinsic gold value provides a hedge against economic uncertainty, while its historical significance and artistic merit offer potential for appreciation beyond mere bullion value. The coin's limited availability, particularly for well-preserved specimens, creates a scarcity premium that often outpaces gold price fluctuations.

For collectors, the Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle represents the pinnacle of American coin design. Its inclusion in a collection signifies a deep appreciation for numismatic artistry and historical importance. The coin's storied past, from its creation at the behest of a president to its role in one of the most dramatic chapters of American economic history, adds layers of intrigue and value.

Investors are drawn to the Saint-Gaudens for its global recognition and liquidity. As one of the most famous gold coins ever produced, it enjoys strong demand in international markets, ensuring ease of sale when the time comes. The coin's enduring popularity also contributes to its stability as an investment vehicle, often allowing it to command premiums well above its gold content.

In an era of economic uncertainty, the tangible nature of the Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle offers reassurance. It's not just a coin; it's a piece of American history you can hold in your hand, a store of value that has withstood the test of time. Whether as a centerpiece of a numismatic collection or a strategic addition to an investment portfolio, the $20 Gold Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle continues to shine as brightly as it did when it first emerged from the mint over a century ago.