1873-S $20 Liberty Closed 3 PCGS AU55

Introduction

The 1873-S $20 Liberty Head Double Eagle Closed 3 is a highly collectible San Francisco gold issue, combining significant gold content with a refined design modification from a pivotal year in American coinage. Graded PCGS AU55, this example exhibits strong remaining detail and original character, offering collectors a well-preserved coin from one of the nation’s most important branch mints. The Closed 3 variety is particularly desirable as the final version of the date style introduced during 1873.

History

The year 1873 marked a transformative period in United States coinage following the passage of the Coinage Act of 1873. Among the changes implemented was a revision to the numeral “3” in the date. Early issues featured the “Open 3,” but later in the year, the design was modified to the “Closed 3” to improve striking durability and visual clarity. Coins struck with this Closed 3 design represent the final iteration of the date for that year, making them an important subtype within the Liberty Head Double Eagle series.
The San Francisco Mint played a critical role in processing gold from the western United States, particularly during and after the California Gold Rush. Double Eagles produced at this facility were heavily used in commerce and international trade, especially in Pacific markets. Many examples experienced extensive circulation or were later melted, making surviving About Uncirculated pieces like this increasingly scarce and desirable among collectors today.

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 Closed 3 style adopted later in 1873. 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. The “S” mintmark beneath the eagle identifies its origin at the San Francisco Mint, adding to its historical and collector appeal.