$20 Gold Coins (Double Eagles)

Historical Background
Prior to 1849, the largest face-value denomination for gold coins produced by the U.S. Mint was $10. However, the California Gold Rush, which began with the discovery of gold at Sutter's Mill in 1848, provided the impetus for a larger gold coin. In 1849, a limited number of $20 gold coins called Double Eagles were struck. Production of these coins in larger quantities began in 1850 and continued until 1933. Throughout its 84-year production run, only two major obverse designs were used Liberty Head (Coronet) and Saint Gaudens. The Saint Gaudens Double Eagle (see below for issue dates) is named for the renowned artist and sculptor, Augustus Saint Gaudens, who created the magnificent "Striding Liberty" design for the obverse, considered by many to be one of the most beautiful coin designs ever created.

Double Eagle Types:
• Liberty Head (Coronet) 1849-1907
• Saint Gaudens (1907-1933)