The 1908-D Saint-Gaudens $20 Double Eagle isn’t just a gleaming chunk of gold—it’s a slice of American heritage, a canvas of artistry, and a crown jewel in any collector’s trove. With a staggering auction price of $4.44 million, this coin has carved out a legendary status in the world of U.S. numismatics.
So, what exactly makes this golden marvel command such reverence? Let’s peel back the layers.
Design
Brought to life by Augustus Saint-Gaudens—arguably the most celebrated sculptor in U.S. coin history—this piece was born from President Theodore Roosevelt’s mission to reimagine American coinage.
And what a masterpiece it became. On the front, Lady Liberty strides forward with power and purpose, torch raised high and olive branch in hand—emblems of light and peace. Flip it over, and you’re met with an eagle in flight, backlit by a rising sun. It’s bold. It’s poetic. Many call it the most beautiful coin ever struck on American soil.
Specs
Struck in 1908 at the Denver Mint (hence the “D”), this Double Eagle blends beauty with technical precision. It’s made of 90% gold and 10% copper, tipping the scale at 33.40 grams and stretching 34 mm across.
One particularly elegant detail? A lettered edge, which sets it apart from the more commonly seen reeded rims and adds a touch of classical flair.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Metal Composition | 90% Gold, 10% Copper |
| Weight | 33.40 grams |
| Diameter | 34.00 mm |
| Edge | Lettered |
| Mint | Denver (“D” Mintmark) |
| Total Mintage | 180,000 |
Rarity
Despite a mintage of 180,000, only a sliver remain in pristine condition. The version in question? It’s a “No Motto” variety—meaning it lacks the inscription “In God We Trust.” That subtle omission isn’t just cosmetic; it ties directly to ongoing debates of the time over religious phrases on money. It’s a nuance that turns this coin into a historical flashpoint.
In gem grades like MS-65 and higher, these coins are genuinely elusive—fueling competition and driving up value.
Value
How does a coin pull in $4.44 million? It’s the perfect storm of rarity, history, condition, and pure visual appeal. The record-breaker was graded in exceptional mint state and tagged under PCGS #9187—a pedigree that collectors drool over.
Of course, the gold content alone has intrinsic value, but it’s the collector market—the ones chasing stories, not just metals—that tacks on the real premium.
Investment
As gold holds firm in global markets, pieces like the 1908-D Double Eagle have become magnets for investors chasing both tangible assets and historical resonance. This isn’t just a coin—it’s a legacy encased in gold.
They seldom appear for sale, and when they do, bidding wars are practically guaranteed. Whether you’re captivated by the design or the potential ROI, this coin delivers on both fronts.
For collectors, historians, or those simply drawn to timeless elegance, the 1908-D Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle stands as an icon—a golden chapter in America’s rich coinage story.
FAQs
Why is the 1908-D coin so valuable?
Its rarity, condition, and ‘No Motto’ design boost its worth.
What does ‘No Motto’ mean?
It means the coin lacks the phrase ‘In God We Trust’ on it.
How much gold is in the coin?
The coin contains nearly one ounce of gold (90% purity).
Who designed the coin?
Augustus Saint-Gaudens, a famous American sculptor.
Where was the coin minted?
It was minted at the Denver Mint, marked with a ‘D’.
