Numismatic

1879-S $20 Liberty Gold Double Eagle AU-55 NGC

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In 1879, the San Francisco Mint struck more than 1.2 million gold double eagles, each carrying a face value of twenty dollars. These substantial coins were minted with a composition of 90 percent gold, containing just under one full troy ounce of the precious metal. The S mint mark on the reverse confirms its origin from the busy California facility, which played a crucial role in transforming western gold into official United States coinage. This specific piece has survived the decades in remarkable condition, certified by professional graders at the About Uncirculated 55 level. The obverse displays the classic Liberty design, with the date 1879 clearly visible beneath her portrait. For enthusiasts of nineteenth-century American coinage, this double eagle represents a fascinating era of minting history, showcasing the artistry and scale of San Francisco's gold production during the late 1800s.