The Liberty Head $20 Gold Coin, also known as the double eagle, is a cornerstone in American numismatic history. Minted from 1849 to 1907, this coin emerged from the extraordinary influx of gold from the California Gold Rush. Its introduction revolutionized U.S. coinage, providing a convenient and valuable means of converting gold bullion into currency. The Liberty Head $20 Gold Coin, with a face value of "TWENTY D," was first officially released in 1850, featuring the iconic Lady Liberty with a coronet inscribed with "LIBERTY" and her hair pulled back, designed by United States Mint Chief Engraver James B. Longacre. Comprising 90% gold and weighing nearly one troy ounce, this coin remains a prized possession for collectors due to its historical relevance and rarity.
The Liberty Head $20 Gold Coin was created to efficiently convert the massive gold deposits from the California Gold Rush into a practical currency form. These coins played a crucial role in international transactions, as many foreign governments preferred gold over paper money. The San Francisco Mint was established in 1854 to meet the necessity of securely and conveniently minting these coins on the West Coast. The series concluded when President Theodore Roosevelt commissioned a new coinage design in the early 1900s, leading to the creation of the Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle.
A fascinating chapter in the coin’s history is the 1989 discovery of the S.S. Central America shipwreck. Thousands of 1857-S double eagles were salvaged from the ship, which had sunk off the coast of North Carolina during a hurricane. These coins, restored to pristine condition, are among the most celebrated finds in numismatic history.
The Liberty Head $20 Gold Double Eagle coin's obverse features Lady Liberty with a coronet, a design used across multiple denominations, while the reverse is unique, displaying a meticulously detailed heraldic eagle positioned beneath rays of sunlight and a ring of stars. Throughout its production, the coin underwent three major design variations:
Coin images sourced from: National Numismatic Collection, National Museum of American History
Several key dates and rare issues make the Liberty Head $20 Gold Coin series particularly valuable:
Liberty Head $20 Gold Coins were minted at various U.S. Mint locations, including Philadelphia (no mint mark), San Francisco (S), New Orleans (O), Carson City (CC), and Denver (D). The mint mark can be found on the reverse above the face value. These mint marks affect the coin’s value and collectability.
The value of Liberty Head $20 Gold Coins depends on several factors, including year, mint mark, design type, and condition. Despite being minted in large quantities, many of these coins were confiscated and melted during the Great Depression under President FDR’s executive order, adding to their rarity.
For collectors seeking to ascertain the value of their Liberty Head $20 Gold Coins, professional grading by the Numismatic Guaranty Company (NGC) or the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) is highly encouraged. These services provide an expert assessment of the coin’s condition, guaranteeing authenticity and quality. Before sending coins for grading, collectors can inspect them for signs of wear on Lady Liberty’s features and the eagle’s details. Coins in better condition and with higher grades will garner significant premiums in the market.
The Liberty Head $20 Gold Coin stands as a testament to a transformative era in American history, reflecting the nation's economic surge and artistic achievements during the 19th century. Its timeless design and historical value make it an essential piece for any numismatic collection. Whether you are an experienced collector or just beginning your exciting journey into the world of coin collecting, the Liberty Head $20 Gold Coin offers an extraordinary opportunity to own a piece of America's rich heritage. At Bullion Hunters, we offer expert guidance and an extensive selection of collectible coins, including the renowned Liberty Head $20 Gold Coin. Explore our website or contact us to discover how these remarkable coins can enhance your collection and connect you with the past.