The Evolution of U.S. Coinage
During the early years of the United States, the $10 eagle was the largest authorized denomination of U.S. coin. However, the California Gold Rush in 1848 led to a significant increase in the amount of bullion being sent to the east, prompting the United States Mint to consider new denominations for gold coinage.
One of the new denominations introduced was the double eagle, with a face value of $20 – double that of the $10 eagle. Designed by James B. Longacre, the first double eagle depicted Liberty as a young woman wearing a coronet with the word “LIBERTY.” While the design received mixed reviews initially, it has gained popularity among collectors in the 21st century.
Design Evolution and Collectibility
The double eagle went through three major design variations, known as Type I, Type II, and Type III, each with its own unique characteristics. The addition of “IN GOD WE TRUST” in the Type II design in 1866 marked a significant change in the coin’s appearance. William Barber’s modifications in 1877 led to the Type III design, which remained in production until 1907.
While certain dates of the Liberty double eagle are more common due to discoveries from shipwrecks, many issues remain scarce, presenting challenges to collectors. However, focusing on collecting double eagles for their designs rather than specific issue dates can be a more accessible approach for collectors.
Collecting the Common Date $20 Liberty Gold Double Eagle MS62
When starting a collection of Liberty double eagles, beginning with “common date” coins can make it easier to acquire these coins. The Common Date $20 Liberty Gold Double Eagle MS62 features a below-eagle mint mark, acceptable overall eye appeal, and contains 0.96750 troy oz of gold mixed with 10% copper.
Orders for unspecified year coins will be fulfilled based on availability, with the possibility of receiving coins from different years in orders of multiple coins. This allows collectors to add to their collection without limiting themselves to specific dates.