Numismatic

1882-S $20 Liberty Gold Double Eagle MS-61 NGC

---

In 1882, the San Francisco Mint struck a significant run of twenty dollar gold coins, producing 1,125,000 of these large denomination pieces. Bearing the classic Liberty design, this specific coin has survived the decades in remarkable condition, earning a certified grade of Mint State 61. It represents a fascinating era of United States coinage when heavy gold pieces actively backed the nation's commerce. Struck from 0.900 fine gold, this double eagle contains 0.9675 troy ounces of precious metal. The obverse features the iconic profile of Liberty wearing a coronet inscribed with her name, surrounded by thirteen stars representing the original colonies, with the year 1882 positioned below. The reverse displays the heraldic eagle with a shield, surrounded by the country of origin and the face value, which is written out as twenty dollars. The small 'S' mint mark on the reverse denotes its origin from the historic San Francisco facility, adding an extra layer of geographical interest to this nineteenth-century treasure.