1873 $20 Liberty Open 3 PCGS AU55

Introduction

The 1873 $20 Liberty Head Double Eagle Open 3 is a highly collectible transitional gold issue, combining substantial gold content with an important design variation from a pivotal year in U.S. coinage. Graded PCGS AU55, this example displays strong remaining detail and attractive original character, offering collectors a well-preserved coin that bridges two distinct design styles. The Open 3 variety is especially sought after for its short-lived production and historical significance.

History

The year 1873 marked a major turning point in American coinage with the passage of the Coinage Act of 1873, which introduced several changes to the nation’s monetary system. One subtle but notable modification was the redesign of the numeral “3” in the date. Early in the year, coins were struck with the “Open 3,” which was later replaced with the “Closed 3” to improve clarity and durability. This makes the Open 3 variety a distinct and collectible subtype within the Liberty Head Double Eagle series.
First introduced in 1850, the Liberty Head Double Eagle played a central role in domestic commerce and international trade, particularly during the post–California Gold Rush era. Many examples saw extensive circulation or were later melted, making surviving About Uncirculated pieces like this increasingly scarce. Today, the 1873 Open 3 Double Eagle stands as a tangible link to a transformative period in U.S. monetary history.

Design

The obverse features a left-facing portrait of Liberty wearing a coronet inscribed with LIBERTY. Thirteen stars encircle the portrait, representing the original states, while the date below displays the distinctive Open 3 style unique to this early 1873 issue. The design reflects the neoclassical artistry of Chief Engraver James B. Longacre.
The reverse displays a heraldic eagle with a shield across its chest, holding an olive branch and arrows that symbolize peace and strength. UNITED STATES OF AMERICA surrounds the design, while the denomination TWENTY DOLLARS appears below. This classic reverse design underscores the coin’s role as a cornerstone of 19th century American gold coinage.