The Saint-Gaudens $20 Double Eagle, minted between 1907 and 1933, is widely considered the most visually stunning coin ever produced by the United States Mint. Especially prized are the 1907 Ultra High Relief specimens, which exemplify the artistic vision of sculptor Augustus Saint-Gaudens and President Theodore Roosevelt’s push for more elegant American coinage.
While several dates in this series—like 1924 and 1926—are relatively common due to mass preservation, others are among the rarest U.S. coins ever created. Some are virtually unobtainable, and a few command multi-million-dollar auction prices. Others fall somewhere in between: scarce but still accessible to high-end collectors.
Let’s look at the five rarest issues in this iconic series:
1. 1927-D Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle
Auction Record: $4,440,000 (MS66, August 2022)
Out of the 180,000 coins originally minted in Denver, nearly all were melted down before the 1933 recall. For years, it was believed that a few may have made it to Europe, but current research shows most stayed in Denver until their destruction around 1931. Fewer than 20 are known to survive today, with nine certified by PCGS. Notably, two examples were found in a Connecticut museum in the 1990s. A PCGS MS67 example is estimated to be worth $4.5 million today.
2. 1933 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle
Auction Record: $18,872,250 (MS65)
Arguably the most famous American coin, the 1933 Double Eagle is surrounded by intrigue and legal battles. Although 445,500 were struck, they were never officially released. Only one specimen is legally owned in private hands—the one that fetched nearly $19 million at auction. The rest are either housed at the Smithsonian, held by the U.S. government, or presumed destroyed.
3. 1907 Ultra High Relief, Lettered Edge
This prototype was the original realization of Saint-Gaudens’ artistic vision, requiring multiple strikes due to its intricate high-relief design. President Roosevelt had one specially struck as a wedding gift for his daughter. However, the design proved impractical for mass production and was later modified. These coins are extremely rare and highly desirable.
4. 1921 Satin Proof Double Eagle
Auction Record: $2,010,000 (SP64+)
This coin remained unknown until the early 2000s, when two examples surfaced—one originally commissioned by Mint Director Raymond T. Baker to mark the birth of his nephew. The origin of the second coin is still uncertain, though it’s believed to have also been a special presentation piece. This rarity features a unique Satin Proof finish and was struck during a time of experimental minting techniques.
5. 1930-S Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle
Auction Record: $372,000 (MS66+, August 2019)
With only 50 to 75 known survivors from its original mintage of 74,000, the 1930-S ranks just below the ultra-rarities in this series. Most were melted down before release. The best-known example, graded MS68, resides in the Smithsonian. This date is recognized for its strong strikes and excellent luster. Today, a top-grade coin is valued around $450,000.
FAQs
Why is the 1933 Double Eagle illegal to own?
Because it was never officially released into circulation, the U.S. government considers most 1933 Double Eagles to be stolen property.
What makes the Ultra High Relief 1907 coin so special?
It represents the original, artistic vision of Saint-Gaudens and Roosevelt, struck in extremely small numbers with exquisite detail and depth.
How can I tell if I have a rare Double Eagle?
Check the coin’s date, mint mark, and condition—consult a reputable grading service or coin dealer for authentication.
Why were most Double Eagles melted down?
The 1933 Gold Recall under FDR led to mass melting of gold coins to remove gold from circulation and stabilize the U.S. economy.
