9 Notable Saint-Gaudens Double Eagles Worth Knowing

9 Notable Saint-Gaudens Double Eagles Worth Knowing – The Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle, minted from 1907 to 1933, is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful coins ever produced by the United States Mint. Designed by renowned sculptor Augustus Saint-Gaudens at the request of President Theodore Roosevelt, this $20 gold piece features Lady Liberty on the obverse and a soaring eagle on the reverse.

While all Saint-Gaudens Double Eagles are prized for their artistry and historical significance, certain specimens stand out due to their rarity, minting errors, or extraordinary condition. In this article, we’ll explore 9 notable Saint-Gaudens Double Eagles that every collector should know about.

1. 1933 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle

The 1933 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle is perhaps the most famous coin in American numismatics—and for good reason. With a mintage of 445,000 coins, none were officially released into circulation due to President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s executive order halting the production and distribution of gold coins. Most were melted down, but a small number survived, making it one of the rarest and most valuable coins in existence.

In 2021, an example of this coin sold for a record-breaking $18.9 million at auction. Its storied history and extreme rarity ensure its status as a numismatic legend.

Also Read: 10 Most Valuable Canadian Coins That Are Worth Big Money

2. 1927-D Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle

The 1927-D Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle is another key date in the series, with a mintage of just over 180,000 coins. Many were melted down during the Great Depression, leaving few surviving examples in high grades.

An MS-66 example fetched $2.16 million at auction in 2022. Its scarcity and superior preservation contribute to its lofty price tag.

3. 1921 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle

The 1921 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle is notable for its low mintage of just over 528,000 coins. Many of these coins were heavily circulated or melted down, leaving few in pristine condition.

A gem-quality example graded MS-65 sold for $1.2 million in 2023. Its rarity and historical significance ensure its appeal.

4. 1907 High Relief Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle

The 1907 High Relief Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle is a masterpiece of coin design, featuring a strikingly detailed depiction of Lady Liberty and a majestic eagle. Originally struck in ultra-high relief, only about 12,367 coins were produced before the design was modified for mass production.

An example graded MS-67 sold for $840,000 in 2021. Its artistic beauty and limited mintage make it a cornerstone of any serious collection.

5. 1920-S Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle

The 1920-S Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle is notable for its relatively low mintage of just over 558,000 coins. Many were melted down, leaving few surviving examples in high grades.

An MS-66 example fetched $720,000 at auction in 2022. Its scarcity and superior preservation contribute to its desirability.

6. 1926-D Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle

The 1926-D Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle is another low-mintage issue, with just over 481,000 coins produced. Finding one in high grades is exceptionally challenging, driving up its value.

A gem-quality example graded MS-65 sold for $600,000 in 2023. Its rarity and historical significance ensure its appeal.

7. 1907 Roman Numerals Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle

The 1907 Roman Numerals Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle is a fascinating variety featuring the date written in Roman numerals (MCMVII). Only about 12,367 coins were struck in this format before the design was simplified.

An example graded MS-66 sold for $550,000 in 2022. Its unique design and limited availability ensure its desirability.

8. 1924 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle

The 1924 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle is notable for its relatively low mintage of just over 4.3 million coins. Many were melted down, leaving fewer surviving examples than expected.

A high-grade example graded MS-66 sold for $450,000 in 2021. Its scarcity and superior preservation contribute to its desirability.

Also Read: 9 Most Expensive Error Quarters Still in Circulation

9. 1925 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle

The 1925 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle is another key date in the series, with a mintage of just over 2.9 million coins. Many were melted down during the Great Depression, leaving few surviving examples in high grades.

An MS-66 example fetched $400,000 at auction in 2023. Its rarity and historical significance ensure its appeal.

What Makes These Saint-Gaudens Double Eagles So Valuable?

Several factors contribute to the staggering prices these Saint-Gaudens Double Eagles command:

1. Rarity: Low mintages, melting campaigns, and limited surviving examples create fierce competition among collectors.
2. Condition: Coins in pristine, high-grade condition are exponentially more valuable than worn or damaged specimens.
3. Historical Significance: Many of these coins played pivotal roles in U.S. monetary history, adding depth and meaning to their appeal.
4. Design Appeal: The artistry of the Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle captivates collectors and enhances their desirability.

Could You Have a Fortune in Your Possession?

While stumbling upon one of these rare Saint-Gaudens Double Eagles in everyday life is unlikely, it’s not impossible. Savvy collectors often search through estate sales, auctions, and online marketplaces for hidden gems. If you come across a gold coin with unusual markings, a misaligned design, or other oddities, consider having it appraised by a professional—it might just be worth a fortune!

The 9 notable Saint-Gaudens Double Eagles highlighted here showcase the incredible diversity and intrigue within the world of numismatics. From the legendary 1933 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle to the artistic 1907 High Relief variety, each coin tells a unique story and offers a glimpse into America’s rich monetary heritage.