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The $20 Gold Saint Gaudens 1914 AU (Almost Uncirculated) coin is a significant piece of American numismatic history, highly esteemed for its artistic design and historical importance. This coin, created by the renowned sculptor Augustus Saint-Gaudens, is often hailed as one of the most beautiful coins ever minted in the United States. Its rich history, intricate design, and excellent condition make it a prized possession for both collectors and investors.
The Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle coin emerged from a period of reform in American coinage spearheaded by President Theodore Roosevelt. Dissatisfied with the artistic quality of contemporary American coins, Roosevelt sought to infuse them with beauty and grandeur that would reflect the nation's growing prominence. He enlisted Augustus Saint-Gaudens, a celebrated artist and sculptor, to redesign the nation's gold coins. Despite facing numerous challenges, including his failing health, Saint-Gaudens managed to produce a design that set a new standard in numismatics.
The obverse of the $20 Gold Saint Gaudens coin features a striking image of Lady Liberty in full stride, holding a torch in her right hand and an olive branch in her left. This depiction symbolizes enlightenment and peace, respectively. The background is filled with the rays of a rising sun, symbolizing a new dawn for America. Encircling Liberty are 46 stars, representing the states in the Union at the time of the coin's creation. The word "LIBERTY" is inscribed above her head, and the date "1914" is prominently displayed at the bottom of the coin.
The reverse side of the coin showcases a majestic bald eagle in flight, soaring above the sun. This powerful image symbolizes freedom and strength, core values of the American ethos. The reverse also includes the inscriptions "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" and "TWENTY DOLLARS," along with the motto "IN GOD WE TRUST," which was added to the design in 1908. The meticulous detail and artistic excellence of both the obverse and reverse make the Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle a true masterpiece of numismatic art.
The 1914 $20 Gold Saint Gaudens coin was minted at the Philadelphia Mint, as indicated by the absence of a mint mark on the coin. The Philadelphia Mint, the first federal mint established in the United States, has a long history of producing high-quality coinage. Coins minted in Philadelphia are known for their superior craftsmanship and attention to detail, attributes clearly evident in the 1914 Double Eagle.
The mintage of the 1914 $20 Gold Saint Gaudens coin was 1,481,000, making it one of the more common dates in the series. However, coins in high grades, such as Almost Uncirculated (AU), are relatively scarce. Coins in AU condition exhibit minimal wear, with most of the original mint luster still intact. The slight wear is typically only noticeable on the highest points of the design, and the intricate details remain sharp and well-defined. This high-grade condition significantly enhances the coin's desirability and value among collectors.
The $20 Gold Saint Gaudens 1914 AU coin is composed of 90% gold and 10% copper, with a total weight of 33.436 grams (1.075 troy ounces) and a gold content of 0.9675 troy ounces. It measures 34 millimeters in diameter and features a reeded edge. The coin's substantial gold content and historical significance make it a favorite among both numismatists and investors. Its gold composition not only adds intrinsic value but also ensures the coin's durability and resistance to wear over time.
Collecting the $20 Gold Saint Gaudens 1914 AU coin offers a tangible connection to a pivotal era in American history. It represents a time when the United States was asserting its economic and artistic prowess on the global stage. The coin's exquisite design by Augustus Saint-Gaudens captures the spirit of progress and innovation that characterized the early 20th century. For numismatists, this coin is not just a valuable asset but also a piece of art and history to be treasured and preserved.
The $20 Gold Saint Gaudens 1914 AU coin stands as a testament to the artistry and craftsmanship of its time. Its rich history, stunning design, and excellent condition make it a highly desirable piece for collectors and investors alike. The coin encapsulates the vision of President Roosevelt and the genius of Augustus Saint-Gaudens, resulting in a masterpiece that continues to be celebrated over a century later. Owning this coin is a privilege, offering a glimpse into the past and a tangible piece of America's numismatic heritage.