1875-S $20 Liberty PCGS AU58

Introduction

The 1875-S $20 Liberty Head Double Eagle is a commanding example of classic American gold coinage produced during the height of San Francisco’s role as the nation’s primary gold mint. Issued at a time when gold was essential to large-scale commerce and international trade, this coin reflects both economic power and Western expansion. Certified PCGS AU58, this example offers exceptional remaining detail and eye appeal, bordering on Mint State quality.

History

The Liberty Head Double Eagle series was struck from 1850 through 1907 and served as the backbone of high-value transactions throughout the United States and abroad. By the mid-1870s, the San Francisco Mint dominated double eagle production, fueled by ongoing gold output from Western mines and strong global demand.
The 1875-S issue circulated widely in banking channels and overseas trade, particularly in Asia and Europe, where U.S. gold was trusted and readily accepted. Many examples were later melted, making well-preserved survivors like this AU58 coin increasingly desirable to collectors and investors alike.

Design

Designed by James B. Longacre, the obverse features Liberty facing left, wearing a coronet inscribed with Liberty. Thirteen stars symbolizing the original colonies surround the portrait, with the date placed below. The design is stately and balanced, exemplifying mid-19th-century American coin artistry.
The reverse displays a heraldic eagle with outstretched wings, holding an olive branch and arrows to represent peace and preparedness. The inscriptions United States of America and Twenty D. encircle the design, with the S mintmark clearly visible beneath the eagle. In AU58 condition, this coin retains sharp design elements, strong luster, and minimal wear, delivering outstanding visual presence for the grade.