The 1908-D Saint-Gaudens $20 Double Eagle isn’t just another collectible coin—it’s an extraordinary blend of historical significance, breathtaking artistry, and serious investment value.
Minted at the Denver Mint and designed by the legendary Augustus Saint-Gaudens, this coin remains one of the most iconic and valuable pieces in American numismatics.
With one example fetching a jaw-dropping $4.44 million at auction, it firmly holds its place among the rarest and most sought-after U.S. coins.
Design
The coin’s design is nothing short of a work of art. On the obverse, Lady Liberty marches forward, torch in one hand and olive branch in the other, representing enlightenment and peace.
Behind her rises the U.S. Capitol, surrounded by rays of the sun. On the reverse, a soaring eagle glides above the horizon beneath a rising sun—a vision of hope, power, and the future of America.
This stunning design came from the mind of Augustus Saint-Gaudens, one of the most celebrated sculptors in U.S. history.
Chosen by President Theodore Roosevelt to bring a classical elegance to U.S. coinage, his work on the Double Eagle is widely considered the most beautiful design in American minting history.
Specifications
Here are the key specifications of the 1908-D Double Eagle:
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Metal Content | 90% Gold, 10% Copper |
| Weight | 33.40 grams |
| Diameter | 34.00 mm |
| Edge | Lettered, not reeded |
| Mint | Denver (D Mintmark) |
| Total Mintage | 180,000 |
Its refined lettered edge instead of the more common reeded edge adds an extra touch of classical beauty that’s rarely seen in modern coinage.
Importance
Among all Saint-Gaudens Double Eagles, the 1908-D “No Motto” version is one of the most significant. This specific type lacks the words “In God We Trust,” which would only be added later in the series.
The absence of the motto was part of an early design choice reflecting a more secular vision—something that drew considerable debate at the time.
Only 180,000 were minted, and far fewer exist today in high grades. Most were melted down over the years, and pristine examples are extremely rare.
The combination of limited supply, beautiful design, and unique historical context make the 1908-D a standout for both collectors and investors.
Record Price
The most famous sale of the 1908-D Double Eagle was for a staggering $4.44 million. That price wasn’t just about the gold—it was about what the coin represents: scarcity, artistry, and history rolled into one.
It ranks among the most expensive U.S. coins ever sold and continues to appreciate as the coin market matures and gold prices remain strong.
Why It Matters
Beyond its metal value, the 1908-D Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle is a story in gold. It tells of an era when U.S. coinage underwent dramatic change, when art and politics merged, and when coins weren’t just tools of trade—but reflections of national identity.
For numismatists, it’s a holy grail. For investors, it’s a proven asset that appreciates with time. And for historians, it’s a golden chapter in America’s legacy.
FAQs
Why is the 1908-D Double Eagle special?
It’s rare, beautifully designed, and lacks the ‘In God We Trust’ motto.
How much gold is in the coin?
It contains nearly one ounce of gold (90% purity).
Who designed the Double Eagle?
Augustus Saint-Gaudens, a famous American sculptor.
What is the record price of the coin?
One sold at auction for $4.44 million.
How many were minted?
Only 180,000 coins were minted in 1908 at the Denver Mint.
