Chasing the $20 Gold Piece: A Guide to Rare U.S. Double Eagle
The $20 Double Eagle is one of the most sought-after gold coins in U.S. numismatics, offering a blend of rich history, rarity, and investment potential.
First minted in 1849, the Double Eagle was created to meet the demands of the booming economy in the mid-19th century, representing the nation's gold standard.
The coin's design has undergone several changes, but it is perhaps the Saint-Gaudens version, first issued in 1907, that remains the most famous and highly coveted.
Its elegant portrayal of Lady Liberty walking confidently forward with a torch and olive branch was the work of renowned sculptor Augustus Saint-Gaudens and quickly became a symbol of American prosperity.
The 1933 Double Eagle, for instance, holds the record as one of the most expensive coins ever sold at auction, with a single example fetching over $18 million in 2002.
The reason for its sky-high value lies in its fascinating history, as it was minted but never officially circulated due to the gold standard abandonment during the Great Depression.
Other rare Double Eagles include coins with minting errors, such as the 1927-D or the 1907 High Relief, which features a unique design that was altered for mass production.
Collectors and investors alike are drawn to these coins for their historical significance, design beauty, and the potential for long-term growth in value.