1861 $20 Liberty Head Double Eagle CACG AU55

Introduction

The 1861 $20 Liberty Head Double Eagle graded CACG AU55 represents an important Civil War-era issue of America's largest circulating gold denomination. Struck at the Philadelphia Mint in 90% gold, the coin contains approximately .9675 troy oz of pure gold and features James B. Longacre's classic Liberty Head design.

History

The Liberty Head Double Eagle was introduced in 1850 following the authorization of the $20 denomination during the California Gold Rush. Designed by U.S. Mint Chief Engraver James B. Longacre, the denomination provided an efficient way to convert the nation's expanding gold supply into coinage.
The Philadelphia Mint struck 2,976,453 regular-issue Double Eagles in 1861, making it the highest-mintage Type I Philadelphia issue. Produced during the first year of the Civil War, the 1861 is part of the original Type I design, which does not include the motto IN GOD WE TRUST.
Graded AU55 by CACG, this example retains strong overall detail with light evidence of circulation consistent with the About Uncirculated grade.

Design

The obverse features Liberty facing left and wearing a coronet inscribed with LIBERTY. Thirteen stars surround the portrait, representing the original states. The date 1861 appears below.
The reverse features a heraldic eagle with a shield across its breast. A ring of thirteen stars and rays appears above the eagle, while ornate scrollwork incorporates the inscription E PLURIBUS UNUM. UNITED STATES OF AMERICA surrounds the upper border, with TWENTY D. below.