Roosevelt’s Renaissance Coin, Sculpted in Gold

When President Theodore Roosevelt sought to restore dignity and beauty to American coinage at the turn of the 20th century, he turned to Augustus Saint-Gaudens, arguably the nation’s most accomplished sculptor at the time. The result was the $20 Saint-Gaudens Gold Double Eagle, a coin widely regarded as the most iconic in American history.

Struck between 1908 and 1933, these pre-1933 Double Eagles showcase Saint-Gaudens’ full-figure rendering of Lady Liberty striding forward with torch and olive branch in hand, framed by the rays of a rising sun. The obverse is encircled by stars—originally 46, expanded to 48 in 1912 to reflect New Mexico and Arizona’s statehood. The reverse features a bald eagle in flight, soaring above the horizon with the inscriptions In God We Trust and United States of America engraved overhead.

Each coin offered here is certified in Almost Uncirculated (AU) condition, with minor wear on high points and a Sheldon scale grade ranging from 50 to 58, retaining strong detail and original luster.

Coin Highlights

• Contains 0.9675 troy oz of .900 fine gold
• Face value of $20 (USD), backed by the United States government
• Struck from 1908 to 1933
• AU (Almost Uncirculated) condition; minimal surface wear with high visual quality
• Obverse: Saint-Gaudens’ Liberty with torch, olive branch, and sunburst background
• Reverse: American bald eagle in flight above the setting sun
• Coins ship securely in protective packaging; year chosen at random

Saint-Gaudens would also go on to design the $10 Indian Head Eagle, but the Double Eagle remains his masterpiece—a symbol of Roosevelt’s ambition to marry American ideals with classical beauty. For collectors, investors, and patriots alike, this coin is both a tangible asset and a golden era captured in hand.

More About the United States Mint

Founded in 1792, the United States Mint has shaped the nation’s history by producing circulating coins, bullion, and commemorative pieces recognized around the world. The Mint’s collaboration with artists like Augustus Saint-Gaudens resulted in some of America’s most celebrated coinage, including the iconic Double Eagle. Today, the Mint continues to produce coins that combine artistry, security, and historical significance, earning the trust of collectors and investors worldwide.