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The $20 Gold Saint Gaudens coin from 1914-D is a distinguished example of American coinage, celebrated for its artistic beauty and historical significance. Designed by Augustus Saint-Gaudens, this coin represents one of the final years of the Saint-Gaudens series, which is widely regarded as one of the most aesthetically pleasing series in American numismatic history. The 1914-D issue is particularly notable for its scarcity and its role in the broader context of early 20th-century American gold coinage.
Augustus Saint-Gaudens, an acclaimed sculptor, was tasked with creating a new design for the $20 gold coin in the early 1900s. His design for the Saint-Gaudens double eagle is renowned for its elegance and detailed craftsmanship. The obverse of the 1914-D coin features a majestic depiction of Liberty, standing tall and poised. Liberty is shown with her hair flowing freely, symbolizing freedom and enlightenment. She holds a torch in her right hand and an olive branch in her left, which signifies peace. The background is adorned with rays of sunlight, enhancing the sense of vitality and radiance. This design is celebrated for its dynamic composition and the sense of movement it conveys, reflecting Saint-Gaudens’ mastery of the art form.
The reverse of the 1914-D $20 Gold Saint-Gaudens coin displays a powerful image of a soaring eagle, clutching olive branches. The eagle, rendered in flight, represents strength and peace, with its wings spread wide and its posture commanding. The inscription “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” arches gracefully above the eagle, while the denomination “TWENTY DOLLARS” and the motto “IN GOD WE TRUST” are positioned below. The reverse design is both bold and serene, complementing the obverse with its clean lines and striking imagery. Together, the designs on both sides of the coin reflect a harmonious blend of artistic vision and symbolic significance.
The 1914-D coin was minted at the Denver Mint, which was one of the primary minting facilities for gold coins at the time. The total mintage for the 1914-D issue was 1,208,000 coins. Although this mintage number might seem substantial, the actual number of surviving examples in high grades is relatively low due to the coin’s extensive circulation and the economic conditions of the era. The 1914-D Saint-Gaudens double eagle is particularly sought after by collectors because of its relative rarity and its role in the transition between the early 20th-century gold coinage designs.
In terms of condition, the 1914-D $20 Gold Saint-Gaudens coin in About Uncirculated (AU) grade is highly prized. Coins in AU condition exhibit only minor signs of wear, with much of the original detail and luster still intact. On an AU coin, the intricate details of Liberty’s hair and the eagle’s feathers are clearly visible, though there may be slight wear on the high points of the design. The coin’s surface should retain much of its original brilliance and exhibit minimal discoloration or imperfections. AU coins are valued for their relatively high level of preservation while remaining more accessible compared to higher grades such as Mint State.
The 1914-D $20 Gold Saint-Gaudens coin, particularly in AU condition, is a cherished collectible among numismatists and investors. Its historical significance, combined with its artistic design and relative rarity, makes it a sought-after piece in the realm of American gold coinage. Collectors appreciate the coin for its role in showcasing one of the greatest achievements in American numismatic design and its connection to a transformative period in American history. As a result, the 1914-D Saint-Gaudens double eagle continues to be a valued item for those interested in both historical and artistic aspects of American coinage.