Numismatic

1909-S $20 St Gaudens Gold Double Eagle MS-65 PCGS

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In 1909, the San Francisco Mint struck this magnificent twenty dollar gold piece, a coin that showcases one of the most celebrated designs in American numismatic history. Crafted from 0.900 fine gold with a precious metal content of 0.9675 troy ounces, this specimen belongs to the famous series produced between 1907 and 1933. Designed by the sculptor Augustus Saint-Gaudens, the coin represents a high point in national artistic expression. The obverse presents a powerful image of Lady Liberty moving forward with determination. She holds a lit torch in one hand and an olive branch in the other, set against a backdrop of dramatic sunbeams. On the reverse, a majestic bald eagle is captured mid-flight, soaring across the design. The coin features the essential inscriptions, including the country of origin, United States of America, and the denomination, Twenty Dollars. While the 1909-S issue is relatively common in grades approaching Gem quality, finding an example certified at the Mint State 65 level is a far more difficult task. This particular coin is highly prized for its exceptional preservation, boasting a sharp strike on all its design elements. Its surfaces are remarkably vibrant, displaying a rich, lustrous orange-gold coloration that makes it a true marvel to study and appreciate.