Numismatic

1866-S $20 Liberty Gold Double Eagle w/Motto XF-45 PCGS

---

In 1866, the San Francisco mint struck a notable variation of the twenty-dollar gold piece. This specific coin belongs to the Coronet Head series, specifically categorized as Type 2, which spanned the years 1866 to 1876. Designed by James B. Longacre, this issue represents a transitional moment in the design evolution of the nation's largest circulating gold denomination. The obverse features a classic left-facing portrait of Liberty, her hair secured with a coronet, surrounded by thirteen stars with the date 1866 positioned at the bottom. On the reverse, the design showcases a heraldic eagle. This particular year is highly significant as it marks the introduction of the motto "IN GOD WE TRUST" inscribed within the oval of stars above the eagle's head, a feature clearly legible on the coin's surface. Struck from 0.900 fine gold, this coin contains 0.9675 troy ounces of pure precious metal. Having survived decades of potential circulation, this specimen is certified in Extra Fine 45 condition, preserving the distinct details of Longacre's mid-nineteenth-century artistry and the historic "S" mint mark of the Western mint.