Saint-Gaudens Gold $20 Double Eagle coins were minted by the US Mint between 1907 and 1933. These coins are extremely popular among collectors due to their beautiful design and historical significance. Some special coins are considered even more special due to their rarity and stories associated with them. Let’s know about ten such most sought-after Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle coins.
1. 1927-D
180,000 pieces of this coin were made, but almost all of them were melted. Today only 15 to 18 coins are left, making this coin extremely rare and priceless for collectors.
2. 1933
A total of 445,500 coins were made this year, but due to the ‘Gold Reserve Act’, they were not officially released in the market. Almost all the coins were destroyed, but some coins somehow survived, making it one of the most famous and expensive US coins in the world.
3. 1907 Ultra High-Relief Proof (lettering on the edge)
This coin is a masterpiece of US Mint art. It took multiple strikes to create it, making the design very deep and impressive. Only 18 to 19 coins were minted, and only 13 to 15 of them exist today.
4. 1921 Satin Proof
Only two copies of this coin have been found, as it was not made for regular circulation. Its satin-like smooth surface makes it special, and it is believed that it was prepared for a special purpose.
5. 1930-S
74,000 pieces of this coin were made, but most of them were destroyed. Only 50 to 75 coins survive today. The best specimen is kept in the Smithsonian Institution, which is known for its amazing quality.
6. 1908-S
This was the first year the phrase “In God We Trust” was added to the coin. Although this coin exists in greater numbers than other rare coins, its historical significance and limited minting make it special.
7. 1920-S
558,000 coins were minted this year, but most were melted down. The coins that survived are usually bland designs, making high quality coins difficult to find.
8. 1927-S
3,107,000 pieces of this coin were minted, but most of them were destroyed. The few coins that survived are also very rare in high grade condition and command high prices.
9. 1929
Due to the Great Depression, most of the 1,779,750 coins minted this year were melted down. Those coins that somehow survived are very valuable to collectors today, especially those without any scratches or wear.
10. 1913-S
Only 34,000 pieces of this coin were made, which makes it rare. This coin represents the time before World War I and is very popular among collectors due to its association with historical events of that time.
| 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 |
Importance of Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle
These coins are very special not only for their beauty, but also because of the historical stories hidden behind them and their rarity. These coins reflect an important period of American history, when strict rules were imposed on gold in the country.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why is the 1933 Double Eagle coin so valuable?
In 1933, the US government changed the policies related to gold and officially banned this coin from being brought to the market. Almost all the coins were destroyed, but some somehow survived. This is why this coin became one of the rarest and most valuable coins in the world.
What distinguishes the 1907 Ultra High Relief Coin as special?
The makers had to strike the coin multiple times to achieve deep engraving because its design contained intricate details. Antique coin collectors consider this piece to be one of the most remarkable American coins because of its advanced craftsmanship.
What methods enable one to identify a Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle coin?
Because these coins possess great value there exist fraudulent duplicates for sale in the market. A trusted coin dealer alongside an official grading service should be consulted whenever you own this kind of coin to confirm its authenticity status.
Conclusion
The Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle coin serves as a representation of important themes including history as well as art alongside heritage. People who collect coins find Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle pieces especially desirable while the unique tales surrounding them create additional interest. A rare double eagle coin in your possession frequently represents one of the most valuable possessions you can have.