The 1849 Coronet Head Gold $20 Double Eagle is one of the most sought-after coins in numismatic history. Known for its rarity and historic significance, this coin is considered a true treasure. Although its face value is $20, the unique qualities and historical context make it worth millions in today’s market. In fact, this coin is not only a rare artifact but also part of the Smithsonian Collection.
What Makes the 1849 Coronet Head Gold $20 Double Eagle Special?
The 1849 Coronet Head Gold $20 Double Eagle stands out for several key reasons. First, it features a distinct design, including an obverse that showcases the image of Lady Liberty without any additional motto. The reverse, on the other hand, displays an American eagle, symbolizing strength and freedom.
Unique Features of the 1849 Double Eagle
- Mintage: Only one 1849 Coronet Head Gold $20 Double Eagle was ever minted, making it an incredibly rare coin.
- Material Composition: The coin is made of 90% gold and 10% copper, ensuring both durability and beauty.
- Weight and Diameter: This historic coin has a mass of 33.44 grams and a diameter of approximately 34mm.
Given its unique mintage and design, this coin is considered one of the most valuable in the United States and around the world.
Where Was the 1849 Coronet Head Gold $20 Double Eagle Minted?
Although the 1849 Coronet Head Gold $20 Double Eagle does not feature a mint mark, it was struck in Philadelphia. Philadelphia was the hub of coin production during that era, and it remains the birthplace of many iconic U.S. coins. The lack of a mint mark only adds to the coin’s mystique and allure, making it even more valuable to collectors.
The Value of the 1849 Coronet Head Gold $20 Double Eagle
The 1849 $20 Double Eagle is not for sale—it’s currently housed in the National Numismatic Collection at the Smithsonian. However, numismatic experts estimate its value to be around $18,989,940 (Proof and PR-63 condition). Some even believe that, if sold, it could fetch upwards of $20 million.
For reference, the melt value of the coin, based solely on its gold content, is approximately $2,674.18 according to the USA Coin Book. However, given its historical significance, the coin’s true worth lies far beyond just its metal content.
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The Reverse Design of the 1849 Double Eagle
The reverse of the 1849 Coronet Head Gold $20 Double Eagle features several significant symbols of American history:
- Inscription: The reverse reads “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” and “TWENTY D.”
- Eagle: At the center, the majestic eagle holds arrows and an olive branch in its talons, symbolizing the United States’ readiness for war and its desire for peace. The eagle is also surrounded by 13 stars, representing the original 13 colonies that declared independence from Britain and became the first states.
This iconic design, combined with its extremely limited mintage, makes the 1849 Coronet Head Gold $20 Double Eagle a must-have for serious coin collectors and historians alike.
The 1849 Liberty Head Gold Double Eagle Coin: A Piece of American History
The 1849 Liberty Head Gold Double Eagle is much more than just a coin. It is a historical artifact that captures the spirit of early America, with its symbolic design and its place in numismatic history. As a coin made of 90% gold and 10% copper, its intrinsic value is tied to the precious metals it contains, but its true worth is in the story it tells—one of America’s early days as an independent nation.
Whether you view it as a historical treasure, a unique investment, or simply a beautiful work of art, the 1849 Coronet Head Gold $20 Double Eagle continues to captivate the imaginations of collectors around the world.
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