Numismatic

1865-S $20 Liberty Gold Double Eagle AU-53 NGC

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In 1865, the San Francisco Mint struck a significant run of twenty dollar gold pieces, producing over one million of these large denomination coins. Bearing the 'S' mint mark, each piece was crafted from 90 percent pure gold, containing nearly a full troy ounce of the precious metal. This issue represents a fascinating moment in American coining, capturing the robust manufacturing output of the West Coast during the mid nineteenth century. The design features the classic Liberty head on the obverse, a motif that defined United States gold coinage for decades. This specific specimen has survived the generations in remarkable condition, certified by professional graders as About Uncirculated 53 (AU-53). For enthusiasts of early American coinage, exploring the details of this well-preserved double eagle offers a direct connection to the historic San Francisco Mint and the gold standard of the 1860s.