The Saint-Gaudens $20 Double Eagle, struck between 1907 and 1933, is widely regarded as the most beautiful coin ever produced by the United States Mint. Particularly revered are the 1907 Ultra High Relief examples, which embody sculptor Augustus Saint-Gaudens’ artistic vision and reflect President Theodore Roosevelt’s mission to elevate the artistry of American coinage.
While certain dates in the series—such as 1924 and 1926—are relatively common due to widespread hoarding, others rank among the rarest U.S. coins ever made. Some are nearly impossible to obtain, often selling for millions at auction. Others, though scarce, remain within reach for elite collectors.
Here’s a look at the five rarest issues in this legendary series:
1. 1927-D Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle
Selling for as much as $4,440,000 at auction in MS66 condition (August 2022), the 1927-D Double Eagle stands among the rarest U.S. coins. Though 180,000 coins were struck at the Denver Mint, nearly the entire mintage was destroyed in the early 1930s, before widespread distribution.
For a time, collectors speculated that a few escaped to Europe, but further investigation confirmed that most were stored—and eventually melted—in Denver. Today, fewer than 20 examples are believed to exist, and only nine have been officially graded by PCGS. A museum in Connecticut surprisingly held two of these historic coins, discovered in the 1990s. The finest known, a PCGS MS67, is now estimated to be worth around $4.5 million.
2. 1933 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle
Widely regarded as the most well-known American coin, the 1933 Double Eagle is enveloped in a legacy of legal disputes and mystery. Although 445,500 coins were produced, they were never officially released into the hands of the public. In the wake of President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s decision to halt gold circulation, almost all were melted.
One legal specimen exists in private ownership—it fetched an astounding $18,872,250 at auction in MS65 condition. The rest either reside in national collections such as the Smithsonian or are held by the federal government. Any additional specimens are considered illegal to possess and are deemed government property.
3. 1907 Ultra High Relief, Lettered Edge
This coin represents the pinnacle of numismatic artistry and stands as the original version of Augustus Saint-Gaudens’ vision for American coinage. Struck in Ultra High Relief with a lettered edge, these prototypes required multiple strikes to achieve their deep, intricate details. President Theodore Roosevelt had a personal fascination with this design and even had one of these coins specially created as a wedding present for his daughter.
However, the coin’s elaborate production process proved unsuitable for mass minting, leading to a redesign in lower relief. With only a handful ever made, these coins are exceedingly rare and treasured by elite collectors for their historical and aesthetic value.
4. 1921 Satin Proof Double Eagle
Long unknown to collectors, the 1921 Satin Proof Double Eagle emerged into the spotlight in the early 21st century when two known examples were uncovered. One was reportedly commissioned by Mint Director Raymond T. Baker to celebrate the birth of his nephew, and while the origin of the second piece is still unclear, it’s believed to have been another specially struck coin.
What makes this coin unique is its Satin Proof finish, a rarity among Saint-Gaudens issues, especially from a year known for experimentation in minting methods. With just two known examples, it’s a legendary piece that once fetched $2,010,000 in SP64+ grade and is seen as a symbol of early 20th-century mint innovation.
5. 1930-S Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle
The 1930-S is a lesser-known rarity but still a significant piece in the Saint-Gaudens series. Of the original 74,000 coins struck at the San Francisco Mint, only about 50 to 75 are thought to have survived the mass meltings that followed the 1933 gold recall.
A prime example sold for $372,000 in MS66+ grade in 2019, and top-quality specimens today can approach $450,000. The 1930-S is appreciated for its sharp details, robust strike, and attractive surface quality. While not as unattainable as the 1933 or 1927-D, it remains a coveted acquisition for serious collectors seeking a blend of scarcity and visual appeal.
FAQs
Why is the 1933 Double Eagle illegal to own?
Because the coin was never officially issued into circulation, it’s classified by the U.S. government as federal property. All but one example are deemed illegal for private ownership, with the lone exception having been legally issued through a unique agreement.
What makes the Ultra High Relief 1907 coin so special?
This coin captures the pure artistic vision of Augustus Saint-Gaudens and Theodore Roosevelt’s efforts to beautify U.S. currency. Its exquisite detail and three-dimensional design set it apart, though the minting process proved too complex for regular production, leading to a redesign.
How can I tell if I have a rare Double Eagle?
Start by examining the coin’s date and mint mark. Because authenticity and condition play major roles in value, it’s crucial to consult with a reputable coin grading service or experienced dealer who can verify and appraise your coin properly.
Why were most Double Eagles melted down?
The federal government’s 1933 initiative to remove gold from everyday use triggered the mass destruction of gold coins, including many Saint-Gaudens Double Eagles. This action aimed to stabilize the economy during the Great Depression by ending the gold standard.