The 1933 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle: The 1933 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle is not just a coin; it is a symbol of artistry, history, and legal intrigue. With one specimen selling for a staggering $18.87 million at auction, it holds the record as the most valuable coin ever sold. This iconic gold piece, designed by renowned sculptor Augustus Saint-Gaudens, represents the pinnacle of American coinage and a fascinating chapter in U.S. history. Its journey from the Mint to the auction block is a tale of beauty, controversy, and unparalleled rarity.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Coin Name | 1933 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle |
| Designer | Augustus Saint-Gaudens |
| Commissioned By | President Theodore Roosevelt (1905) |
| Design Features | – Obverse: Liberty striding forward with a torch and olive branch, Capitol Building in background, sun rays behind her. – Reverse: Majestic eagle in flight with the sun rising below. |
| Mintage | 445,500 pieces (1933) |
| Circulation Status | Never officially released due to Executive Order 6102 (1933) |
| Reason for Withdrawal | Gold recall by President Franklin D. Roosevelt during the Great Depression |
| Fate of Most Coins | Nearly all were melted down |
| Surviving Coins | Few escaped, considered stolen property by U.S. government |
| Famous Owner | King Farouk of Egypt (legally exported in 1944) |
| Auction Records | – 2002: $7.59 million – 2021: $18.87 million (most valuable coin ever sold) |
| Legal Controversy | U.S. government pursued ownership claims over surviving specimens |
| Collectibility | Extremely rare; ultimate numismatic prize |
| Ways to Engage | – Learn its history – Collect other Saint-Gaudens coins – Attend auctions & exhibitions – Work with reputable dealers |
| Significance | Symbol of artistry, history, and legal intrigue; pinnacle of American coinage |
Table of Contents
The Artistry of Augustus Saint-Gaudens
The Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful coins ever produced by the United States Mint. Commissioned by President Theodore Roosevelt in 1905, the coin was designed by Augustus Saint-Gaudens, a preeminent sculptor of the era. Roosevelt sought to elevate American coinage to the level of ancient Greek and Roman art, and Saint-Gaudens delivered a masterpiece.
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The coin’s design features a full-length figure of Liberty striding forward on the obverse, holding a torch in one hand and an olive branch in the other. The Capitol Building is visible in the background, and the sun’s rays radiate behind her. The reverse depicts a majestic eagle in flight, with the sun rising below it. The intricate details and high-relief design make the Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle a work of art as much as a piece of currency.
The 1933 Double Eagle: A Coin That Never Circulated
The 1933 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle holds a unique place in numismatic history. Although 445,500 pieces were minted in 1933, none were officially released into circulation. This was due to President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s Executive Order 6102, which prohibited the hoarding of gold coins and required Americans to turn in their gold holdings as part of efforts to stabilize the economy during the Great Depression. As a result, nearly all 1933 Double Eagles were melted down, and the coin was never officially issued.
However, a small number of 1933 Double Eagles escaped destruction. These coins were either stolen or smuggled out of the Mint, making them illegal to own. Over the years, the U.S. government has aggressively pursued these coins, considering them stolen property. This legal battle has only added to the coin’s mystique and value.
The Legend of the 1933 Double Eagle
One of the most famous 1933 Double Eagles was owned by King Farouk of Egypt, an avid coin collector. The coin was legally exported to Egypt in 1944, but when Farouk was deposed in 1952, the coin disappeared. It resurfaced in the 1990s, leading to a high-profile legal battle between the U.S. government and the coin’s owner. The case was eventually settled, and the coin was sold at auction in 2002 for $7.59 million, setting a record at the time.
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In 2021, another 1933 Double Eagle made headlines when it sold for $18.87 million at auction, shattering the previous record and cementing its status as the world’s most valuable coin. This sale underscored the coin’s rarity, historical significance, and enduring appeal to collectors.
Rarity and Collectibility
Today, only a handful of 1933 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagles are known to exist, and all are closely monitored by the U.S. government. The coin’s rarity, combined with its stunning design and dramatic history, makes it the ultimate prize for collectors. Owning a 1933 Double Eagle is not just about possessing a rare coin; it is about owning a piece of American history and a symbol of artistic achievement.
For most collectors, the 1933 Double Eagle remains an unattainable dream due to its extreme rarity and astronomical value. However, its legacy continues to inspire numismatists and historians alike. The coin serves as a reminder of the intersection of art, history, and law, and its story is a testament to the enduring allure of rare and beautiful objects.
Tips for Collectors
While the 1933 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle may be out of reach for most, there are ways to engage with its legacy:
- Learn Its History: Understanding the story behind the 1933 Double Eagle can deepen your appreciation for its significance. Books, documentaries, and museum exhibits often feature this iconic coin.
- Explore Other Saint-Gaudens Coins: The Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle series includes other dates and mintmarks that are more accessible to collectors. These coins offer a chance to own a piece of the same artistic legacy.
- Attend Auctions and Exhibitions: Even if you can’t own a 1933 Double Eagle, attending auctions or exhibitions where the coin is displayed can provide a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see it in person.
- Work with Reputable Dealers: If you ever have the opportunity to acquire a high-value coin, ensure that you work with a trusted dealer or auction house. Authentication and certification by organizations like PCGS or NGC are essential.
Conclusion
The 1933 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle is more than just a coin; it is a cultural icon and a testament to the artistry and history of American coinage. Its record-breaking $18.87 million sale is a reflection of its unparalleled rarity, beauty, and the fascinating story behind its creation and survival. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a casual enthusiast, the 1933 Double Eagle represents the pinnacle of numismatic achievement and the timeless allure of rare and historic artifacts.
