1967 Republic of Liberia 20 Dollars Gold Proof Coin
Coin (Numismatic/Commemorative Gold) · Yellow Gold (Alloyed with copper for a slightly warm/reddish-yellow durability typical of currency-grade gold alloys).
Purity: 21.6K (900/1000 Fineness); Contains 90% pure gold and 10% copper alloy.
Type
Coin (Numismatic/Commemorative Gold)
Purity
21.6K (900/1000 Fineness); Contains 90% pure gold and 10% copper alloy.
Gold Type
Yellow Gold (Alloyed with copper for a slightly warm/reddish-yellow durability typical of currency-grade gold alloys).
Weight
34.00 grams (Gross weight); Contains approximately 0.9839 troy ounces of fine gold.
Description
An impressive large-format gold coin representing Liberian sovereign history. This 20 Dollar gold piece features the portrait of William V.S. Tubman, the 19th President of Liberia. It is part of a series intended more for collectors and international reserve than for general circulation, showcasing the rich iconography of the African republic through high-purity precious metal.
Key Features
Portrait of President Tubman; Liberian Coat of Arms featuring a sailing ship, palm tree, and dove; High gold content (nearly 1 ozt full weight).
Color & Finish
Deep lustrous yellow with reflective surfaces. The 1967 issue displays a high-polish proof finish with frosted devices and mirrored fields, though currently shows significant surface toning and circulation patina.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Obverse: 'REPUBLIC OF LIBERIA', '1967'. Reverse: '20 DOLLARS' and the Liberian coat of arms. Edge: Usually reeded or inscribed.
Dimensions Estimate
34 mm in diameter; approximately 2.5 mm in thickness.
Gemstones & Inlays
None. The design features a relief bust of President William V.S. Tubman on the obverse.
Clasp & Closure
Not applicable. Coin features a standard reeded edge for security against shaving/clipping.
Chain & Links
Not applicable structural components; coin edge is reeded (milled) to prevent counterfeiting.
Craftsmanship Details
Struck with high-pressure dies; features machine-perfected reeding and clear, deep-relief typography characteristic of late 1960s state-sponsored minting.
Authentication Indicators
Weight consistency (34g), crispness of the '1967' date stamp, and the specific 90% gold color which resists the green corrosion typical of plated brass fakes.
Origin & Maker
Liberia; Minted by the Swiss Mint (Bern) or commissioned through private mints for the Liberian government.
Era & Period
Modern Numismatics (Mid-Century Modern); minted specifically in 1967 to commemorate the 120th anniversary of independence.
Age Estimate
Dated 1967; approximately 57 years old.
Cultural Significance
Commemorates the 120th anniversary of the first African republic to proclaim its independence (1847-1967).
Condition Notes
Very Good to Fine (Numismatic Grade: Approx. VF-20 to XF-40). Visible surface wear, significant loss of original mint bloom, and heavy environmental toning/tarnish are present.
Value Estimate
Primarily driven by melt value (~$2,000 - $2,300 USD based on gold spot), plus a small numismatic premium of 5-10% depending on buyer interest.
Care & Maintenance
Do not clean or polish with abrasives as this destroys numismatic value. Store in a PVC-free airtight capsule to prevent further oxidation.
Similar Items
South African Krugerrand (22K), US Double Eagle $20 (90% Gold), British Sovereign (22K).
Interesting Facts
Despite the 'Dollar' denomination, Liberia has had a long historical link with the US currency system; these specific coins were often purchased by investors as a hedge against inflation during the late 60s.