The 1927-D Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle $20 gold coin is a rare and valuable piece in the numismatic world. Most of these coins were destroyed following the 1933 gold recall, making surviving examples exceptionally rare.
Today, collectors and investors prize these coins for their historical significance, beauty, and limited availability. Only around 14-15 coins from this issue are known to exist, with the National Numismatic Collection at the Smithsonian in Washington, D.C. holding three of them.
The Rarity and Value of the 1927-D Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle
This coin’s rarity makes it one of the most sought-after pieces for serious collectors. In 2022, a graded PCGS MS66 example sold for an astonishing $4,440,000 at a Heritage Auction. This extraordinary price highlights the coin’s rarity and significance.
Not only is the 1927-D Double Eagle rare, but most of the surviving examples are in excellent condition, adding to their value. For example, the finest known piece, initially graded PCGS MS66, is now believed to be graded PCGS MS67. This coin was once part of the Museum of Connecticut History collection.
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Notable Auctions and Market Prices
Many important sales have featured the 1927-D Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle. Here are a few standout examples:
- PCGS MS67: Sold by Stack’s in 1991 for $522,500 and purchased by coin dealer Jay Parrino. This coin later sold for $1,897,500 in 2005.
- PCGS MS66+ CAC: This coin has changed hands multiple times, including a 2021 private sale for $3,090,000.
- PCGS MS66: A notable coin from the Bob Simpson Collection sold for $4,440,000 in 2022.
Collectors are willing to pay millions for these coins, especially those in Mint State condition, making them both rare and highly valuable in the current coin market.
Design Features of the 1927-D Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle
The 1927-D Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle is admired for its stunning design, which was created by Augustus Saint-Gaudens, one of America’s most celebrated sculptors. Both the obverse (front) and reverse (back) of the coin feature intricate and symbolic imagery.
Obverse (Front):
The obverse of the coin showcases a full-length image of Lady Liberty holding an olive branch in her left hand and a torch raised in her right. She is depicted standing on a rock, with the rays of the sun and the U.S. Capitol building behind her. The word “LIBERTY” appears at the top of the coin, with 46 six-pointed stars forming a circle around the edge, symbolizing the number of states in the Union at the time.
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Reverse (Back):
On the reverse, a majestic eagle is shown in flight, soaring above the rays of the rising sun. The motto “IN GOD WE TRUST” appears in an arc above the sun, and the denomination “TWENTY DOLLARS” is written just below. The design reflects a sense of optimism and forward movement, aligning with the spirit of the era.
Coin Specifications
- Country: United States of America
- Year of Issue: 1927
- Denomination: $20
- Mintmark: D (Denver)
- Mintage: 180,000
- Alloy: 90% gold, 10% copper
- Weight: 33.436 grams
- Diameter: 34 mm
- Edge: Lettered (E PLURIBUS UNUM)
- Designer: Augustus Saint-Gaudens
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Conclusion
The 1927-D Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle is not just a coin; it is a piece of history and art, with a design that captures the beauty and symbolism of America during the early 20th century.
Its rarity and value make it a prized item for serious collectors and investors. If you are lucky enough to own or come across one, you hold a treasure that could fetch millions in today’s coin market.