1904 $20 Liberty Head Gold Double Eagle
Coin (Numismatic/Bullion) · Yellow Gold (Classic deep orange-yellow hue characteristic of US pre-1933 gold)
Purity: 21.6K (90% Gold, 10% Copper alloy), .900 fine gold content
Type
Coin (Numismatic/Bullion)
Purity
21.6K (90% Gold, 10% Copper alloy), .900 fine gold content
Gold Type
Yellow Gold (Classic deep orange-yellow hue characteristic of US pre-1933 gold)
Weight
33.436 grams gross weight (0.9675 troy oz of pure gold)
Description
An iconic example of American numismatic history, the $20 Liberty Double Eagle represents the height of the gold standard era. This 1904 specimen features a left-facing Lady Liberty with hair pulled back in a chignon, wearing a coronet inscribed with 'LIBERTY', surrounded by thirteen six-pointed stars representing the original colonies.
Key Features
Large format 34mm planchet; high relief design elements; James B. Longacre bust; 1904 was a high-mintage year making it a staple for bullion investors and collectors.
Color & Finish
Deep lustrous yellow with warm orange undertones; original satin luster with visible light surface bag marks and light circulation toning
Hallmarks & Stamps
Year '1904' on obverse; LIBERTY inscribed on coronet; J.B.L. designer initials below bust; Denticulated border
Dimensions Estimate
34.1 mm diameter, 2.41 mm thickness
Gemstones & Inlays
None (standard metal strike)
Clasp & Closure
Reeded edge (vertical grooves for anti-counterfeit protection)
Chain & Links
Standard reeded edge (not applicable for chain/links)
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-struck at the Philadelphia Mint; high-quality strike with sharp definition on facial features; precise reeding on the circumference.
Authentication Indicators
Correct font style for date; precise denticles at the rim; characteristic orange-gold patina; consistent die luster in the recessed areas; crispness of hair strand details.
Origin & Maker
United States Mint (No visible mint mark indicates Philadelphia Mint)
Era & Period
The Gilded Age / Pre-1933 US Gold era (Designed by James B. Longacre)
Age Estimate
Produced in 1904 (120 years old)
Cultural Significance
A symbol of American economic power in the early 20th century. Most of these coins were recalled and melted following Executive Order 6102 in 1933, making survivors highly prized.
Condition Notes
About Uncirculated (AU) to Brilliant Uncirculated (BU) range. Appears to have strong luster, sharp details on Liberty’s hair, and minor contact marks on the cheek and fields. No evidence of jewelry mounting/damage.
Value Estimate
Varies with gold spot price; currently approx. $2,300 - $2,600 USD based on a mix of 0.9675 oz melt value and a numismatic premium.
Care & Maintenance
Do not clean or polish as it destroys numismatic value; store in an archival-grade PVC-free plastic flip or slab; handle only by the edges using cotton gloves.
Similar Items
$20 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle (1907-1933), $10 Liberty Head Eagle, Modern 1oz Gold American Eagle (different purity and design)
Interesting Facts
The $20 Double Eagle was created following the California Gold Rush to facilitate trade. 1904 was the next-to-last year of the Liberty Head design before Augustus Saint-Gaudens took over.