1914-S $20 Saint Gaudens PCGS MS64

This Type underwent two significant modifications and two relatively minor alterations. The first major change occurred in 1908, with the addition of the motto "IN GOD WE TRUST" on the reverse, prominently positioned just above the radiant sun. The second major adjustment transpired in 1912, coinciding with the admission of New Mexico and Arizona as states. This event led to the inclusion of two additional stars on the obverse, increasing the total count to 48 stars. These new stars found their place at the lower right end of the star arc pattern.
In 1908, the minor modifications involved augmenting the number of eagle tail feathers from eight to nine, and on the reverse, a slight reduction in the count of rays from 34 to 33 occurred.
The impetus for adding the motto to our coinage emanated from the advocacy of Reverend Mark R. Watkinson of Ridleyville, Pennsylvania. The profound religious sentiments evoked by the uncertainties and horrors of the Civil War spurred Rev. Watkinson to propose this inclusion. Secretary of the Treasury Salmon P. Chase concurred with this sentiment and, wielding his authority over coin inscriptions, initiated the inclusion of the motto on the 2-cent piece in 1864. Originally, the motto was intended to read as "In God Our Trust." However, Chase's association with Brown University, whose motto "IN DEO SPERAMUS" translates to "IN GOD WE HOPE," may have influenced the final wording. It is believed that Secretary Chase had this in mind when determining the precise wording of the motto. The Coin Act of March 3, 1865, vested the Treasury with discretionary power to include the motto "on all coins able to accommodate it," referring to coins with sufficient space for its inscription. The Mint interpreted this directive to encompass all silver coins larger than a dime, half eagles, eagles, and double eagles. It wasn't until 1908 that Congress mandated the motto's inclusion on gold and silver coins. Subsequently, in 1955, Congress passed legislation requiring the motto's presence on all coins.
Collectors pursue Saints in various ways. Some opt for a single high-grade specimen, while advanced collectors and investors undertake the formidable challenge of assembling complete date and mintmark sets, a pursuit demanding substantial resources and considerable patience. Given that the coin was minted in Philadelphia, Denver, and San Francisco, many collectors seek one from each Mint. Bullion enthusiasts often acquire low-grade pieces as a hedge against inflation. Notably, coins minted in 1933 were never officially released into circulation, rendering any appearing in the public domain subject to potential government confiscation.