Things to Know About the 20 Saint Guadens Gold Coins

The 20 Saint Guadens gold coins are also popularly known as the Saint Gaudens Double Eagle or Double Eagle gold coins. These coins were issued by the US Mint from 1907 to 1933. The coins were designed by the acclaimed US sculptor, Augustus Saint-Gaudens. The coins bear the Saint-Gaudens mark, below the date.

The history of the 20 Saint Gaudens gold coins goes back to the 20th century. Saint Gaudens was hired by President Theodore Roosevelt to design coins for the American coinage. However, Saint Gaudens could only design the Double Eagle and the Indian Eagle gold coins before he died. These are considered as some of the most popular designs among hobbyists and collectors.

The value of these numismatic coins is decided by their state of deterioration. The coin’s condition is evaluated by the process of coin grading. The coin grading system evaluates a coin based on its surface, design, element, visible appeal and luster.

$20 Saint Gaudens Gold Coins: The High Relief
The term ‘High Relief’ is often used to describe these coins. Twenty four Proof Double Eagles Saint Gaudens were minted in 1907. These coins were made of 24-karat pure gold. Later on, 11,250, more High Relief $20 Saint Gaudens coins were issued and circulated. However, the images on the coins made them heavier and difficult to store. The original Saint Gaudens coins were then modified to produce a flatter version.

$20 Saint Gaudens Gold Coins of 1908
These $20 Saint Gaudens gold coins are famous because of the omission of the phrase ‘In God We Trust’. The phrase was also omitted from a few coins manufactured in 1907. This was done on the directions of President Roosevelt. The phrase was reintroduced in the Saint Gaudens coins minted in 1908.

The Last Saint Gaudens Gold Coins of 1933
In 1933, owning gold coins were declared illegal by the US government. This was done to stabilize the economy and stop the hoarding of gold currency during the Great Depression of 1939-1940. At this time, all gold coins were melted down. Two Double Eagle gold coins, which survived the melt down, were presented by the US Mint, to the U.S. National Numismatic Collection, at the Smithsonian Institute. These were the only two known legal specimens. However, in 1952, eight more 1933 Double Eagle gold coins were seized by the Secret Service. These coins were seized because they were thought to be stolen from the US Mint.

American Eagle Gold Coins Well Know Bullion Coins

American Eagle Gold Coins are well known bullion coins. These are minted in USA and as per the rules the gold is 100% American for it to be considered legal. These were launched when South African gold was banned due to protest against apartheid.

The American Eagle Gold Coins are 22 carat gold, i.e. 91.67% pure gold. They are made in 1/10 oz, ¼ oz, ½ oz and 1 oz denominations which are also the weight of the coin i.e. its gold content. Gold has baser metal like copper and silver alloy content. They differ from Kruggerands in their yellow color, which is due to the alloy. Kruggerands are deep orange.

This coin was designed by Augustus Saint Gaudens, the world famous designer. It has the Lady of Liberty holding her torch on one side, the other has a male eagle flying above a female eagle and a baby eagle. It is rich in symbolism. The male eagle represents the power and might of USA, and the male eagle also carries an olive branch that represents USA’s commitment to peace. All of the coins bear the same design. The gold content varies as per the denomination.

Another great advantage is that American Eagle Gold Coins are recognized globally. They are, in fact, the most popular gold coins in the world. Hollywood has done its bit in making people from countries all over the world familiar with both its intrinsic value as well as its artistic value. This adds to their appeal as a collector’s item. People display pride in owning an American Eagle Gold Coin.

Moreover, U.S. Mint guarantees their gold content and their weight.

Saint Gaudens $20 Gold Coin: MS 64

In the year 1907, the then US President Theodore Roosevelt commissioned the adornment of the American coinage to his friend Augustus Saint Gaudens. The new series of coins created was named after its designer. Saint Gaudens $20 coins are known for their high aesthetic appeal. They were recognized as the best design pieces. This series was issued from 1907 through 1933. For the numismatics and investors, there are two main sub categories for Saint Gaudens – one without the motto ‘In God We Trust’ and the other with the motto. The coins minted throughout 1907 and partially in 1908, did not contain the words. As they could not gain wide public acceptance, a law was passed in 1908, mandating the engraving of the motto.

The obverse portrays a prominent figure of Lady Liberty holding the symbols of freedom and peace in her hands. Her right, outstretched hand holds the torch of freedom. The left arm is stretched sideways. It holds an olive branch in the middle. The backdrop signifies the backing of the religious ‘glory.’ The reverse features a large bald eagle flying over the image of sun, positioned at the bottom. Along the circumference on the frontal side, 46 stars (1907-1911 releases) or 48 stars (1912-1933 releases) are engraved. The number of stars corresponded with the number of federal states in the US. Mexico and Arizona were included in the year 1912. Therefore, these variants also represent two different types of the coin for the collectors.

Among the most valued Double Eagles are the ones from the rare series. During the last four years, 1929-33, much fewer coins were released, rendering them much sought-after. The eye appeal often drives the grading, demand, and value of the coins. This explains why the MCMVII mint of 1907 enjoys a very active market and is an expensive variety. Ironically, such high appeal coins are most prone to bumps, marks, and defects, all of which contribute towards lowering their value.

Various St. Gaudens are easily available in the mint state, which implies such coins never went into circulation and are present in the original condition. The mint state (MS) Double Eagles are available in grades between 60 and 70, with 70 representing the finest grade and truly flawless. MS-64 is a popular and easily accessible version that signifies no wear & tear and original mint shine. However, it may contain some bag marks, hairline, or molding defects. Its luster is original, but may be marred by some visible spotting of mellowing red copper contents. It is possible for a coin with noticeable deficiencies to slide into the lower bracket, MS-63. Nevertheless, some compensating factors like extra shine may help retain its grade.