$20 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle Gold Coin
Coin (Numismatic and Bullion) · Yellow Gold (Classic American coinage alloy with a reddish-orange tint due to copper content)
Purity: 21.6K (90% Gold, 10% Copper), .900 fine gold
Type
Coin (Numismatic and Bullion)
Purity
21.6K (90% Gold, 10% Copper), .900 fine gold
Gold Type
Yellow Gold (Classic American coinage alloy with a reddish-orange tint due to copper content)
Weight
33.436 grams total weight; 0.9675 troy ounces of pure gold content
Description
Widely considered the most beautiful coin in American history, the Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle features a majestic flying eagle on the reverse against a rising sun with rays. The design was commissioned by President Theodore Roosevelt to revitalize American currency with classical Greek aesthetic sensibilities.
Key Features
Flying eagle reverse, sunburst background, Augustus Saint-Gaudens design, 'In God We Trust' motto added in 1908
Color & Finish
Deep orange-yellow luster consistent with historic US gold coinage; satin-like mint luster with minor surface abrasions
Hallmarks & Stamps
Lettered edge (E PLURIBUS UNUM with stars), 'UNITED STATES OF AMERICA', 'TWENTY DOLLARS', 'IN GOD WE TRUST' on reverse
Dimensions Estimate
34.1 mm diameter, 2.41 mm thickness
Gemstones & Inlays
None; features high-relief sculptural metalwork
Clasp & Closure
Not applicable; reeded or lettered edge depending on year of issue
Chain & Links
Not applicable
Craftsmanship Details
High-relief die striking; features intricate feather detail and sharp lettering integrated into the circular composition
Authentication Indicators
Correct font serifs, crispness of the sun rays, specific copper-tinted gold color, detailed feathering on the eagle wings
Origin & Maker
United States Mint (Philadelphia, Denver, or San Francisco mints); Designed by Augustus Saint-Gaudens
Era & Period
Progressive Era / Renaissance of American Coinage (1907-1933)
Age Estimate
Produced between 1907 and 1933; based on design, likely 1908-1933 (No Motto vs Motto versions)
Cultural Significance
Represents the pinnacle of the American 'Golden Age' of coinage and the transition from a gold standard to a fiat-based economy during the Great Depression.
Condition Notes
About Uncirculated (AU) to Mint State (MS) 60 range; minor contact marks and surface chatter visible on the eagle's breast and wings; luster remains strong
Value Estimate
Base melt value (variable) plus a numismatic premium of 5-15% for common dates in this condition; ranges typically from $2,100 to $2,500 depending on spot price
Care & Maintenance
Do not clean or polish as it destroys numismatic value; store in PVC-free plastic capsules or archival flips; handle only by the edges with cotton gloves
Similar Items
Liberty Head $20 Double Eagle (older style), 1oz American Gold Eagle (modern bullion version with same obverse design)
Interesting Facts
The 1933 issue of this coin is one of the world's most valuable rarities because most were melted down after the Gold Reserve Act, with one specimen selling for over $18 million in 2021.