Description

The Double Eagle or $20 Gold Liberty Head was first minted in 1849 and continued through 1933.  The only $20 gold piece struck in 1849 resides in the Smithsonian.  Designed by James B Longacre, Type 1 No Motto coins were released between 1850-1866.  The obverse features Liberty with her hair tied back wearing a coronet inscribed ‘Liberty’ with stars surrounding her and the date below.  The reverse displays an eagle with a shield holding an olive brand and arrows with stars and rays above, the mintmark below, and the inscriptions UNITED STATES OF AMERICA and TWENTY D.  From 1866-1876 Type 2 With Motto was introduced; the reverse was altered to include the motto IN GOD WE TRUST within the circle of stars above the eagle.  In 1877 the reverse was revised once again changing the inscription from TWENTY D. to TWENTY DOLLARS.  Coins issued between 1877-1907 are considered Type 3 With Motto.