The Saint-Gaudens Gold $20 Double Eagle, minted between 1907 and 1933, is one of the most iconic coins in American history. Known for its intricate design and historical significance, this coin remains a prized possession among collectors.
However, not all Saint-Gaudens Double Eagles are created equal. Some stand out due to their rarity, limited surviving specimens, and fascinating stories. Below are ten of the most sought-after Saint-Gaudens $20 Double Eagles.
1. 1927-D
With an original mintage of 180,000 coins, nearly all were melted down due to changes in gold policies. Today, only 15 to 18 specimens are known to exist, making the 1927-D one of the rarest and most valuable Double Eagles.
2. 1933
Though 445,500 were struck, the 1933 Double Eagle was never officially released due to the Gold Reserve Act. Most were melted, and only a few survived. This coin is one of the most famous and valuable U.S. coins, with a single specimen selling for over $18 million in 2021.
3. 1907 Ultra High Relief Proof with Lettered Edge
Designed by Augustus Saint-Gaudens, this coin represents the pinnacle of U.S. coin artistry. Approximately 18 to 19 were minted, but only 13 to 15 are known today. Its stunning high-relief design required multiple strikes, making it a masterpiece of early 20th-century minting.
4. 1921 Satin Proof
Only two examples of this coin exist, and they were never intended for circulation. These coins were likely created for presentation purposes and feature a rare satin finish, enhancing their allure and mystery.
5. 1930-S
Of the original 74,000 coins minted, only about 50 to 75 survived the mass melting of gold coins. The finest known specimen is housed in the Smithsonian Institution, and collectors prize this coin for its exceptional strike quality.
6. 1908-S
This was the first year the motto “In God We Trust” appeared on the Saint-Gaudens Double Eagles. While not as rare as others on this list, its historical significance and relatively low mintage make it a desirable piece for collectors.
7. 1920-S
Most of the 558,000 coins struck in 1920 were melted down, making surviving examples scarce. High-grade specimens are even rarer, as many surviving coins exhibit weak strikes due to the minting process.
8. 1927-S
Despite a mintage of over 3 million, very few 1927-S Double Eagles were released into circulation. Most were melted, and high-grade examples are extremely difficult to find, commanding significant premiums in auctions.
9. 1929
As the Great Depression took hold, the U.S. Mint melted most of the 1,779,750 coins before they could enter circulation. Those that survived are highly sought after, especially in uncirculated condition.
10. 1913-S
With a modest mintage of 34,000, the 1913-S is a key date for collectors. Its low survival rate and historical context in the pre-World War I era add to its desirability.
Summary of Key Dates and Rarities
| Year | Mint Mark | Mintage | Estimated Survivors | Notable Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1927 | D | 180,000 | 15-18 | Extremely rare |
| 1933 | None | 445,500 | Few | Never circulated |
| 1907 | None | 18-19 | 13-15 | Ultra High Relief |
| 1921 | None | 2 | 2 | Satin Proof |
| 1930 | S | 74,000 | 50-75 | High strike quality |
The Saint-Gaudens Double Eagles blend artistry with history, making them some of the most coveted coins in U.S. numismatics. Whether due to their scarcity, unique designs, or the historical events surrounding them, these coins continue to captivate collectors worldwide.
FAQs
The 1933 Double Eagle was never officially released into circulation due to the Gold Reserve Act. Nearly all were melted down, and only a few escaped. This extreme rarity has made it one of the most valuable coins in the world.
The 1907 Ultra High Relief Double Eagle features an exceptionally detailed design that required multiple strikes to achieve its depth. Many consider it the pinnacle of U.S. minting artistry.
Due to their high value, Saint-Gaudens Double Eagles are often counterfeited. It’s essential to have them authenticated by reputable grading services like the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) or the Numismatic Guaranty Company (NGC).