$20 Saint Gaudens MS64 (Dates/Types Vary)

Introduction

The $20 Saint-Gaudens Gold Double Eagle MS64 (Dates/Types Vary) offers collectors an opportunity to own one of the most celebrated designs in American coinage in Choice Mint State condition. Each coin is professionally certified MS64 and contains approximately .9675 troy ounces of pure gold, combining substantial precious metal content with the history and artistry of classic pre-1933 United States coinage. Dates, mintmarks, and specific design types vary according to availability, making each example a distinctive representative of the legendary Saint-Gaudens series.

History

The Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle was introduced in 1907 as part of President Theodore Roosevelt's effort to elevate the artistic quality of American coinage. Roosevelt commissioned renowned sculptor Augustus Saint-Gaudens to redesign the nation's $20 gold coin, resulting in a dramatic new design that replaced the long-running Liberty Head Double Eagle. The series remained in production through 1933, although coins were not struck in every year.

During its production, the Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle underwent several important changes. The earliest regular issues were struck without the motto IN GOD WE TRUST, which was added to the reverse in 1908 following congressional action. Coins were produced at the Philadelphia, Denver, and San Francisco Mints depending on the year. Many Double Eagles were later melted following changes to United States gold policy during the 1930s, while others survived after being held overseas and were eventually returned to the United States. Certified MS64 examples offer strong original luster, well-preserved surfaces, and an appealing balance of quality, history, and gold content.

Design

The obverse features Liberty striding forward while holding a torch in her right hand and an olive branch in her left, symbolizing enlightenment and peace. Rays of the rising sun extend behind her, with the United States Capitol visible in the background. Stars surround the design, while the date appears at lower right. Saint-Gaudens' dynamic portrayal of Liberty is widely regarded as one of the great achievements of American numismatic art.

The reverse depicts a bald eagle soaring above the rays of the rising sun, creating a powerful image of strength and freedom. The inscriptions UNITED STATES OF AMERICA and TWENTY DOLLARS appear above the eagle. Depending on the date and type, the reverse may either omit IN GOD WE TRUST or display the motto above the rising sun. Dates, mintmarks, and specific design types vary according to availability.