Numismatic

1851 $20 Liberty Gold Double Eagle XF

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In 1851, the Philadelphia Mint produced this twenty dollar gold piece, representing the early years of a design series that ran from 1850 to 1866. Containing 0.9675 ounces of gold, this coin represents a major denomination in United States currency history. The total production for this specific year reached 2,087,155 pieces, all struck at the main Philadelphia facility. The obverse features a left-facing portrait of Liberty, whose hair band displays her name. Thirteen stars encircle the portrait, representing the original colonies, with the year 1851 positioned at the bottom. James B. Longacre created this classic representation, which became a staple of American gold coinage. On the reverse, a heraldic eagle holds a shield on its chest, with another arrangement of thirteen stars positioned directly above the bird. The surrounding inscriptions read UNITED STATES OF AMERICA and TWENTY D. This particular coin survives in Extra Fine condition, offering a clear look at the intricate details of mid nineteenth century American minting.