1933 Saint Gaudens Double Eagle 20 Dollar Coin
The 1933 Saint Gaudens Double Eagle 20 Dollar Coin is one of the most sought-after coins in American numismatics. It is known for its exquisite design and rarity, as only a handful of these coins are known to exist today. This article will delve into the history of this coin, its unique features, and its current value in the market.
The Design
The design of the 1933 Saint Gaudens Double Eagle 20 Dollar Coin is considered one of the most beautiful of all American coins. The obverse features Lady Liberty holding a torch and an olive branch, while the reverse shows a flying eagle with the sun rising behind it. The design was created by Augustus Saint Gaudens, one of America's most famous sculptors.
The History
The 1933 Saint Gaudens Double Eagle 20 Dollar Coin was minted by the United States Mint but was never released to the public. In fact, most of the coins were melted down after President Franklin D. Roosevelt issued an executive order in 1933, which made it illegal for Americans to own gold coins. However, a small number of these coins managed to escape destruction and were smuggled out of the Mint.
The Rarity
The 1933 Saint Gaudens Double Eagle 20 Dollar Coin is one of the rarest coins in the world. Only 20 of these coins were officially released to collectors, but all of them were later confiscated by the government and melted down. However, a few coins managed to survive, and they are now highly sought after by collectors and investors alike.
The Value
The value of the 1933 Saint Gaudens Double Eagle 20 Dollar Coin is astronomical, with some coins selling for millions of dollars. In fact, a single coin sold for a record-breaking $7.6 million at auction in 2021. This makes it one of the most valuable coins in the world and a highly prized addition to any collection.
The Controversy
The 1933 Saint Gaudens Double Eagle 20 Dollar Coin is not without controversy. The US government considers these coins to be stolen property and has seized most of them when they come up for sale. In fact, the coin that sold for $7.6 million was the only one that was legally allowed to be sold, as it was the only one that was not seized by the government. This has led to a legal battle between the government and the owners of these coins.
The Future
The future of the 1933 Saint Gaudens Double Eagle 20 Dollar Coin is uncertain. While it is highly unlikely that any more coins will be discovered, the legal battle between the government and the owners of these coins may continue for years to come. However, one thing is certain: this coin will continue to be one of the most valuable and sought-after coins in the world.