1875 $20 Liberty PCGS MS62 CAC

The 1875 $20 Liberty Head Double Eagle is a remarkable survivor from the post–Civil War era, representing both the economic growth of the United States and the enduring artistry of James B. Longacre’s classic design. Certified by PCGS in Mint State 62 and carrying the additional endorsement of CAC, this coin offers collectors and investors a combination of historical importance, solid preservation, and trusted verification of quality.

The Liberty Head Double Eagle was first struck in 1850 to take advantage of the enormous influx of gold from the California Gold Rush. With its large size and $20 face value, the denomination was ideal for international commerce and major domestic transactions. The obverse features the crowned portrait of Liberty facing left, wearing a coronet inscribed with the word “LIBERTY,” surrounded by thirteen stars and the date below. The reverse displays the heraldic eagle with a shield on its breast, clutching arrows and an olive branch, framed by the inscriptions “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” and “TWENTY DOLLARS.” The design remained in production until 1907, becoming one of the most recognized gold coins of the 19th century.

The 1875 Double Eagle was struck at the Philadelphia Mint, with a total mintage of 295,720 coins. While this figure might seem substantial, the number of surviving Mint State examples is a fraction of the original production. Many coins were heavily circulated during the late 19th century, particularly in domestic trade and international shipments to Europe, where large quantities of American gold were used to settle debts and facilitate global commerce. As a result, most surviving 1875 Double Eagles are found in lower circulated grades. Uncirculated examples like this one are significantly scarcer and command strong interest among advanced collectors.

Graded Mint State 62 by the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS), this coin displays sharp detail and original mint luster, with contact marks consistent with the assigned grade. MS62 is an important level for collectors of Liberty Double Eagles, as it represents a clear jump above About Uncirculated examples while still offering accessibility compared to higher Mint State levels. The overall eye appeal is strong, with surfaces that retain much of the brightness and bold character intended by the Mint more than a century ago.

Adding further assurance, this coin has been approved by the Certified Acceptance Corporation (CAC). A CAC sticker confirms that the coin is high-end for the grade, offering above-average quality compared to other examples at the same level. In the competitive Double Eagle market, CAC approval provides collectors with confidence that they are acquiring a piece of exceptional quality and authenticity. Coins with CAC approval often carry additional desirability and market liquidity, making them especially appealing for both collecting and investment purposes.

The 1875 issue is particularly appealing for those assembling a complete Liberty Head Double Eagle set, as Philadelphia Mint coins from this period are known for their solid strikes and attractive surfaces when preserved in higher grades. For type collectors, it provides an outstanding example of Longacre’s enduring design, rich with symbolism and historical context.

Beyond its numismatic appeal, this Double Eagle carries the intrinsic value of nearly a full ounce of gold, reinforcing its role as both a collectible artifact and a tangible asset. With its combination of gold weight, certified Mint State status, and CAC endorsement, the 1875 $20 Liberty offers stability, beauty, and long-term desirability.

The 1875 $20 Liberty Head Double Eagle PCGS MS62 CAC is more than just a coin. It is a piece of American history that connects today’s collectors to the nation’s financial and cultural growth during the late 19th century. With its sharp design, bright surfaces, and confirmed quality, it stands as a superior representative of the Liberty Double Eagle series and a prized acquisition for any advanced collection.