Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle $20 Gold Coin
Coin (Numismatic/Bullion) · Yellow Gold (Classic American coinage alloy with a reddish-orange hue due to copper content)
Purity: 22K (.900 Fine Gold); 90% gold and 10% copper alloy
Type
Coin (Numismatic/Bullion)
Purity
22K (.900 Fine Gold); 90% gold and 10% copper alloy
Gold Type
Yellow Gold (Classic American coinage alloy with a reddish-orange hue due to copper content)
Weight
33.436 grams total weight (0.9675 troy oz of pure gold content)
Description
Widely considered the most beautiful coin ever minted by the U.S., the reverse depicts a majestic bald eagle in flight against a sunburst, while the obverse (not shown) features Lady Liberty walking forward.
Key Features
Flying eagle reverse design; Romanesque sun rays; Augustus Saint-Gaudens’ signature high-relief artistic style
Color & Finish
Deep lustrous orange-gold with a satin to frosty finish; typical 'cartwheel' luster on higher grades
Hallmarks & Stamps
Inscribed: 'UNITED STATES OF AMERICA', 'TWENTY DOLLARS', 'IN GOD WE TRUST' (added after 1908)
Dimensions Estimate
34.1 mm diameter; 2.4 mm thickness
Gemstones & Inlays
None; relief metal design
Clasp & Closure
Reeded edge (milled) for security against clipping/shaving
Chain & Links
Not applicable; features a reeded edge with raised rim
Craftsmanship Details
Precision die-struck; features intricate feather detailing and multi-layered perspective in the sunburst pattern
Authentication Indicators
Sharpness of feathers and sun rays; correct alloy color; specific reeding pattern on the edge; diagnostic lettering spacing
Origin & Maker
United States Mint (Philadelphia, Denver, or San Francisco mints); Sculptor Augustus Saint-Gaudens
Era & Period
Early 20th Century American (Renaissance of American Coinage); 1907–1933
Age Estimate
Circa 1908–1933 (The inclusion of 'IN GOD WE TRUST' excludes the 1907/early 1908 varieties)
Cultural Significance
Represents the pinnacle of American numismatic art; commissioned by Theodore Roosevelt to rival ancient Greek coinage
Condition Notes
About Uncirculated (AU) to Mint State (MS) 60; slight surface chatter visible on the eagle's breast and wing tips
Value Estimate
Market value fluctuates with gold spot + numismatic premium; typically $2,100 - $2,500 depending on grade and mint mark
Care & Maintenance
Do not clean or polish; handle by the edges only; store in a PVC-free airtight capsule or numismatic holder
Similar Items
Liberty Head Double Eagle ($20 Coronet), Modern American Gold Eagle Bullion (which uses the same obverse design)
Interesting Facts
The 1933 version is one of the world's most expensive coins because most were melted down after FDR's Executive Order 6102