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The Certified $20 Gold Liberty 1891-S, graded MS62 by NGC, is a superb example of a U.S. double eagle gold coin from the late 19th century. The $20 Liberty Head series, also known as the Double Eagle, was first introduced in 1850 and was minted until 1907. Designed by James B. Longacre, this coin was created to accommodate the influx of gold following the California Gold Rush, which greatly increased the need for larger denomination gold coins in circulation. This 1891-S specimen, struck at the San Francisco Mint, reflects both the history of America’s westward expansion and its growing economy during the Gilded Age. The MS62 grade signifies that this coin is in mint state, with attractive luster and minor surface marks consistent with the grade.
The obverse of the 1891-S $20 Gold Liberty features a left-facing profile of Lady Liberty. She is portrayed wearing a coronet inscribed with the word "LIBERTY," and her hair is elegantly tied back with curls cascading down her neck. Thirteen stars encircle her head, representing the original thirteen colonies of the United States, and the date "1891" is positioned below her image. Longacre’s design is considered a masterpiece of neoclassical art, drawing upon the ideals of liberty, strength, and unity. On this MS62 example, the obverse retains a strong strike, with Liberty’s facial features, the coronet, and the surrounding stars well-defined. The coin’s luster is still present, though slight contact marks are visible upon closer inspection, typical of the MS62 grade.
The reverse of the 1891-S $20 Gold Liberty features a majestic heraldic eagle with outstretched wings, clutching an olive branch in one talon and arrows in the other. Above the eagle’s head is a ribbon bearing the national motto "IN GOD WE TRUST." Surrounding the eagle are the inscriptions "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" and "TWENTY DOLLARS." The reverse also includes the "S" mintmark, indicating that the coin was struck at the San Francisco Mint. The reverse design is a powerful symbol of the United States’ growing strength and prominence on the world stage during the late 19th century. On this MS62 example, the eagle’s feathers, arrows, and olive branch are sharply struck, with excellent detail. The overall design retains much of its original brilliance, contributing to the coin’s eye appeal.
The San Francisco Mint, where this coin was struck, played a critical role in producing gold coinage during the 19th and early 20th centuries, particularly in the wake of the California Gold Rush. Established in 1854, the San Francisco Mint was responsible for striking a significant portion of the nation’s gold coins, especially the larger denominations like the $20 Gold Liberty. By 1891, the San Francisco Mint had cemented its reputation for producing high-quality gold coins, and the "S" mintmark on this coin connects it to the rich history of the western United States and the gold rush that fueled the nation’s economic expansion. Coins from the San Francisco Mint, especially those in higher grades like MS62, are prized by collectors for their historical significance and quality.
The mintage of the 1891-S $20 Gold Liberty was 1,227,000 coins, a relatively moderate production run for the series. However, despite this mintage, many of the coins struck that year were circulated heavily, as gold coins were commonly used in large transactions during the period. As a result, well-preserved examples in mint state grades, such as MS62, are relatively scarce and highly sought after by collectors. The MS62 grade, certified by NGC, indicates that the coin has been carefully evaluated and authenticated by one of the most respected grading services in the numismatic community. NGC’s certification provides collectors with confidence in the coin’s authenticity, quality, and condition.
The $20 Gold Liberty series was eventually replaced in 1907 by the Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle, which is considered by many to be one of the most beautiful coins ever produced by the United States Mint. However, the Liberty Head Double Eagle remains a favorite among collectors for its historical significance and classic design. The 1891-S issue, struck during the Gilded Age, represents a time of rapid industrial growth and expansion in the United States. Gold coins like this one were an integral part of the nation’s monetary system, facilitating trade and commerce both domestically and internationally.
The Certified 1891-S $20 Gold Liberty MS62 NGC is a valuable and historically significant coin that appeals to collectors of U.S. gold coinage. Its mint state condition, combined with its connection to the San Francisco Mint, adds to its desirability. The coin’s neoclassical design, which celebrates the ideals of liberty and unity, is a timeless representation of America’s values during a transformative period in its history. Collectors and investors alike will appreciate the beauty, rarity, and historical context of this piece, making it a treasured addition to any numismatic collection.