Double Eagles are one of the most fascinating coins in U.S. history, cherished by collectors for their gold content and artistic value. These $20 gold coins were minted from 1849 to 1933 and represent a significant piece of American history. Collecting Double Eagles is not only about the monetary value but also about owning a piece of the past, full of stories tied to the California Gold Rush and shipwreck treasures. If you’re interested in coin collecting, Double Eagles offer an exciting way to explore both history and investment.
The History of the Double Eagle
Origins and the California Gold Rush
The Double Eagle came into existence because of the California Gold Rush. Before 1849, there wasn’t enough gold in circulation to justify minting such a large coin. The largest coin denomination before the Double Eagle was the $10 Eagle. However, after the Gold Rush began, Congress authorized the minting of the $20 gold coin in 1849. The name “Double Eagle” came from the fact that its value was twice that of the $10 Eagle.
Minting the Liberty Head Double Eagles
From 1850 to 1933, Double Eagles were minted at the Philadelphia, San Francisco, and New Orleans mints. The early versions were known as Liberty Head Double Eagles, which are highly collectible today. Some of these coins are quite rare, especially those minted in New Orleans and San Francisco, making them attractive to serious collectors.
Saint-Gaudens Redesign
In 1907, the design of the Double Eagle was revamped by famous sculptor Augustus Saint-Gaudens, at the request of President Theodore Roosevelt. The new design is considered one of the most beautiful coins ever produced by the United States. The Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle went through various changes as the U.S. expanded and new states joined the Union, adding even more historical significance to these coins.
Key Facts About Double Eagles
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Coin Type | Double Eagle ($20 Gold Coin) |
| First Minted | 1849 |
| Last Minted | 1933 |
| Famous Designs | Liberty Head, Saint-Gaudens |
| Mint Locations | Philadelphia, San Francisco, New Orleans |
| Material | 90% Gold |
Reasons to Collect Double Eagles
| Reason | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Gold Content | Coins are made of gold, adding intrinsic value. |
| Historical Significance | Represents key U.S. historical events like the Gold Rush and Civil War. |
| Artistic Value | The Saint-Gaudens design is considered a masterpiece in coin art. |
| Shipwreck Treasures | Coins recovered from shipwrecks add rarity and adventure to collecting. |
| Investment Potential | Double Eagles are valuable for both collectors and investors. |
Collecting Double Eagles
Why Are They Popular?
Double Eagles are highly desirable among collectors for several reasons:
- Gold Content: As a 20-dollar gold coin, they have inherent value due to their gold content, making them both beautiful and valuable.
- Historical Value: These coins represent a significant period in U.S. history, from the Gold Rush to the Civil War.
- Design: The artistic design, especially the Saint-Gaudens version, adds to their appeal.
Shipwreck Treasures
Many Double Eagles have been recovered from famous shipwrecks, such as the S.S. Central America and S.S. Republic, which carried large shipments of these coins before sinking. The discovery of these shipwrecks has made Double Eagles more available to collectors in recent years.
How to Collect Double Eagles
There are many ways to start a Double Eagle collection:
- Shipwreck Sets: Collecting coins from famous shipwrecks like the S.S. Central America.
- Mint Collections: Gathering coins from each mint where Double Eagles were produced (Philadelphia, San Francisco, New Orleans).
- Civil War Collection: Acquiring Double Eagles minted during each year of the American Civil War.
Conclusion
Collecting Double Eagles is a rewarding hobby that combines the thrill of owning valuable gold coins with the excitement of owning a piece of U.S. history. These $20 gold coins, first minted during the California Gold Rush, are highly sought after for their gold content, historical significance, and beautiful designs. Whether you’re interested in the Liberty Head series or the artistic Saint-Gaudens versions, Double Eagles offer a unique way to explore American history. As more coins are discovered from shipwrecks, their availability increases, giving collectors more opportunities to own a piece of this golden legacy. Whether you’re a seasoned coin collector or just starting out, the Double Eagle is a timeless and valuable addition to any collection.
FAQ’s
Why are Double Eagles valuable?
Double Eagles are valuable because they are made of gold, have historical significance, and feature beautiful designs, especially the Saint-Gaudens version.
What is the difference between Liberty Head and Saint-Gaudens Double Eagles?
The Liberty Head design was used from 1849 to 1907, while the Saint-Gaudens design was introduced in 1907 and is considered one of the most beautiful U.S. coins ever made.
What makes shipwreck Double Eagles special?
Shipwreck Double Eagles are coins recovered from famous shipwrecks, adding an element of adventure and rarity to the collection.
How can I start collecting Double Eagles?
You can start by focusing on a specific series, such as Liberty Head or Saint-Gaudens, or by collecting coins from specific mints or historical periods, like the Civil War.
Are Double Eagles a good investment?
Yes, Double Eagles can be a good investment due to their gold content and historical value, making them both valuable and collectible.