Numismatic

1896-S $20 Liberty Gold Double Eagle MS-63* NGC

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Struck at the San Francisco mint, this 1896 gold double eagle represents a classic era of United States coinage. The piece contains 0.9675 troy ounces of gold, combined with copper to create a durable 0.900 fine alloy. This specific specimen has been certified in MS-63 condition, indicating a high level of preservation that allows its original design details to remain sharp and clear. The obverse features a left-facing profile of Lady Liberty. Her hair is secured by a pearl-adorned crown that displays the word LIBERTY, with the 1896 year of manufacture positioned directly below the portrait. This design, created by James Barton Longacre, was a staple of American currency during its production run from 1850 to 1907. On the reverse, the design draws inspiration from the Great Seal of the United States, displaying a heraldic eagle. The surrounding inscriptions clearly identify the issuing authority as the United States of America, alongside the twenty-dollar face value. This coin offers a fascinating look at late nineteenth-century minting artistry and the enduring symbols of the nation.