The Top 10 Saint-Gaudens Gold $20 Double Eagle Coins: The Saint-Gaudens $20 Double Eagle is one of the most iconic and sought-after gold coins in American history. Designed by renowned sculptor Augustus Saint-Gaudens and first minted in 1907, this gold coin is celebrated for its stunning artistry and historical significance. Collectors and investors alike prize the Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle, with certain years and variations standing out for their rarity, beauty, and value. In this article, we’ll explore the top 10 most valuable and important Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle coins ever struck.
Table of Contents
- 1 1933 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle
- 2 1907 High Relief Double Eagle
- 3 1927-D Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle
- 4 1921 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle
- 5 1920-S Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle
- 6 1924-S Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle
- 7 1926-D Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle
- 8 1930-S Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle
- 9 1931-D Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle
- 10 1932 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle
- 11 What Makes Saint-Gaudens Double Eagles Valuable?
- 12 Tips for Collecting Saint-Gaudens Double Eagles
- 13 The History of the Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle
- 14 Table – Top 10 Saint-Gaudens $20 Double Eagle Coins
- 15 FAQs
1933 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle
The 1933 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle is the most famous and valuable coin in the series—and one of the most expensive coins in the world. Although 445,500 were minted, most were melted down during the Great Depression, and only a few survived. One specimen sold for a staggering $18.9 million in 2021, making it the most expensive coin ever sold. The 1933 Double Eagle is not just a coin; it’s a symbol of American history and resilience.
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1907 High Relief Double Eagle
The 1907 High Relief Double Eagle is a masterpiece of coin design, featuring an ultra-high relief that gives the coin a sculptural, almost three-dimensional appearance. This design was so intricate that it proved difficult to mint, leading to a limited production run. In mint condition, this coin can sell for $100,000 or more. Its beauty and historical significance make it a favorite among collectors.
1927-D Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle
The 1927-D Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle is one of the rarest coins in the series, with a mintage of only 180,000. Many of these coins were melted down, and surviving examples are highly sought after. In higher grades, this coin can fetch $2 million or more. Its rarity and historical importance make it a true treasure of American numismatics.
1921 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle
The 1921 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle is a key date in the series, with a mintage of just 528,500. Many of these coins were melted down, and surviving examples are rare. In mint condition, this coin can sell for $500,000 or more. Its low mintage and historical significance make it a prized addition to any collection.
1920-S Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle
The 1920-S Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle is a rare coin with a mintage of only 558,000. Many of these coins were melted down, and surviving examples are highly collectible. In higher grades, this coin can be worth $100,000 or more. Its rarity and historical importance make it a favorite among collectors.
1924-S Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle
The 1924-S Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle is a rare coin with a mintage of only 2,927,500. Many of these coins were melted down, and surviving examples are highly sought after. In higher grades, this coin can fetch $50,000 or more. Its rarity and historical significance make it a true treasure of American numismatics.
1926-D Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle
The 1926-D Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle is a rare coin with a mintage of only 481,000. Many of these coins were melted down, and surviving examples are highly collectible. In higher grades, this coin can be worth $50,000 or more. Its rarity and historical importance make it a favorite among collectors.
1930-S Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle
The 1930-S Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle is a rare coin with a mintage of only 74,000. Many of these coins were melted down, and surviving examples are highly sought after. In higher grades, this coin can fetch $100,000 or more. Its rarity and historical significance make it a true treasure of American numismatics.
1931-D Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle
The 1931-D Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle is a rare coin with a mintage of only 106,500. Many of these coins were melted down, and surviving examples are highly collectible. In higher grades, this coin can be worth $100,000 or more. Its rarity and historical importance make it a favorite among collectors.
1932 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle
The 1932 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle is a rare coin with a mintage of only 1,101,750. Many of these coins were melted down, and surviving examples are highly sought after. In higher grades, this coin can fetch $50,000 or more. Its rarity and historical significance make it a true treasure of American numismatics.
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What Makes Saint-Gaudens Double Eagles Valuable?
- Rarity: Many Saint-Gaudens Double Eagles were melted down, especially during the Great Depression, making surviving examples rare.
- Historical Significance: These coins were minted during a pivotal time in U.S. history, from the early 20th century to the Great Depression.
- Condition: Coins in higher grades (uncirculated or near-perfect condition) are significantly more valuable.
- Design: The stunning artistry of Augustus Saint-Gaudens makes these coins highly desirable among collectors.
Tips for Collecting Saint-Gaudens Double Eagles
- Research Key Dates: Focus on the rarest dates and mint marks, such as the 1933 or 1927-D.
- Check Condition: Coins in better condition are worth significantly more, so look for well-preserved examples.
- Authentication: Have rare coins authenticated and graded by a reputable service like PCGS or NGC.
- Patience: Building a collection of Saint-Gaudens Double Eagles takes time and dedication.
- Networking: Join coin clubs or online forums to connect with other collectors and stay informed about rare finds.
The History of the Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle
The Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle was introduced in 1907 as part of President Theodore Roosevelt’s initiative to beautify U.S. coinage. Augustus Saint-Gaudens, one of America’s greatest sculptors, was commissioned to design the coin. The obverse features Lady Liberty striding forward with a torch and olive branch, symbolizing enlightenment and peace. The reverse showcases a majestic eagle in flight, representing strength and freedom. The coin’s intricate design and high relief made it a masterpiece of numismatic art.
Table – Top 10 Saint-Gaudens $20 Double Eagle Coins
Coin | Mint | Estimated Value | Unique Feature |
---|---|---|---|
1907 Ultra High Relief | Philadelphia | $4M+ | Deeply struck, only ~24 exist |
1907 High Relief (Wire & Flat Rim) | Philadelphia | $200K–$500K+ | Closest to original design, ~14K minted |
1927-D | Denver | $2M–$3M+ | Only ~12–15 known, most melted |
1933 | Philadelphia | $18.9M (record) | Most famous U.S. gold coin, illegal to own except one |
1920-S | San Francisco | $400K+ | Most melted, fewer than 75 known |
1921 | Philadelphia | $1M+ | Only Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle from 1921 |
1927-S | San Francisco | $200K+ | Very rare in mint state, semi-key date |
1908-S (With & No Motto) | San Francisco | $100K–$300K+ | First with “IN GOD WE TRUST” motto |
1915-S | San Francisco | $150K+ | Low survival rate, scarce in mint condition |
1932 | Philadelphia | $100K–$300K+ | Last year before Roosevelt’s gold recall |
The Saint-Gaudens Gold $20 Double Eagle is more than just a coin—it’s a work of art and a piece of American history. From the legendary 1933 Double Eagle to the rare 1927-D, these coins are treasures that capture the imagination of collectors and historians alike. Whether you’re a seasoned numismatist or just starting your collection, the hunt for these rare and beautiful coins is a journey worth taking. With their stunning design, historical significance, and potential for high value, Saint-Gaudens Double Eagles are truly the crown jewels of American coinage.
FAQs
What makes the Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle so valuable?
Its artistic design, historical significance, and rarity contribute to its high value.
Which Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle is the most expensive?
The 1933 Double Eagle, which sold for $18.9 million in 2021.
Why were many Saint-Gaudens Double Eagles melted?
Due to the 1933 Gold Recall Order by President Franklin D. Roosevelt.
How can I authenticate a Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle?
Through professional grading services like PCGS or NGC.
Are Saint-Gaudens Double Eagles legal to own?
Most are legal, except for certain 1933 specimens seized by the government.