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The Certified $20 Saint-Gaudens 1911-D MS64 PCGS is a magnificent example of one of the most celebrated and artistically significant coins in American numismatic history. The Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle, named after its designer Augustus Saint-Gaudens, is widely regarded as the most beautiful coin ever produced by the United States Mint. Originally commissioned by President Theodore Roosevelt as part of his campaign to elevate American coinage to the level of ancient Greek artistry, the Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle made its debut in 1907 and remained in production until 1933. The 1911-D issue, struck at the Denver Mint, is notable not only for its relatively modest mintage compared to Philadelphia issues but also for its connection to the early years of the series when high relief and artistic quality were paramount. Certified MS64 by PCGS, this coin represents near-gem quality, showcasing both the design’s brilliance and the Denver Mint’s craftsmanship during this important period.
The obverse of the 1911-D Saint-Gaudens $20 Gold Double Eagle features the full-length figure of Liberty striding forward with a torch raised high in her right hand and an olive branch in her left, symbolizing enlightenment and peace. Draped in flowing robes, Liberty’s figure is dynamic and powerful, set against a backdrop of the rising sun with its rays stretching outward. Encircling the top edge of the coin are forty-six stars, representing the states of the Union at the time, and the word "LIBERTY" appears above Liberty’s head. The date "1911" is situated to the right near the base, rendered in an elegant and clear font. Even in MS64 condition, the fine detailing in Liberty’s robes, the torch, and the olive branch remain crisp and vivid, giving full justice to Saint-Gaudens’ breathtaking design, which sought to embody the spirit of American optimism and vigor at the dawn of the 20th century.
The reverse of the 1911-D Saint-Gaudens $20 Double Eagle displays a magnificent depiction of an American bald eagle in flight above a stylized rising sun. The eagle’s wings are stretched wide in a posture of strength and freedom, and the bold lines of the sun’s rays create a dramatic and uplifting backdrop. Above the eagle are the inscriptions "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" and "TWENTY DOLLARS," while the motto "IN GOD WE TRUST" appears between the eagle and the sun’s rays, an addition mandated by Congress after the first 1907 high relief issues omitted it. The artistry of the reverse complements the obverse perfectly, celebrating the vitality and independence of the nation. In MS64 condition, the eagle’s feathers, the sun’s radiance, and the inscriptions are sharply defined, with only minor imperfections preventing an even higher grade, making this coin a stunning representation of the design’s full impact.
The 1911-D Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle was struck at the Denver Mint, which had begun operations only a few years earlier in 1906. The Denver Mint was established to serve the growing need for coinage in the western United States, particularly in response to the expanding mining and economic activity of the region. Coins struck at Denver during the early 20th century, identifiable by the "D" mintmark located to the left of the date, are generally highly regarded for their quality and relative scarcity compared to Philadelphia issues. The 1911-D had a mintage of 846,500 pieces, a modest figure in the context of the series, especially when considering the attrition rate caused by widespread melting of gold coins following the Gold Reserve Act of 1934. Surviving examples are prized, and those graded MS64 by PCGS are among the finest known, offering both scarcity and exceptional preservation.
The condition of the Certified $20 Saint-Gaudens 1911-D MS64 PCGS is exemplary, embodying near-gem quality with sharp, full strikes, vibrant luster, and outstanding visual appeal. In MS64, the coin exhibits minimal contact marks, confined primarily to the fields or non-focal areas, with no major distractions to the viewer. Liberty’s intricate details—such as her facial features, flowing garments, and the fine rendering of the torch and branch—remain sharply defined, while the eagle’s wings and the sunburst on the reverse are equally crisp. The surfaces of an MS64 example are typically vibrant, with swirling cartwheel luster that enhances the dramatic relief of the design. The coin’s eye appeal is strong, making it a standout piece suitable for collectors seeking top-tier examples without reaching the significantly higher price points commanded by MS65 or MS66 specimens.
PCGS certification adds an important layer of credibility and security to the 1911-D Saint-Gaudens $20 Double Eagle. As one of the leading third-party grading services in the world, PCGS offers rigorous authentication, precise grading standards, and tamper-evident encapsulation. The MS64 grade assures collectors and investors that the coin is an outstanding example, falling just shy of gem status but still offering premium quality and impressive preservation. The PCGS label provides critical information, including the date, denomination, mintmark, grade, and a unique certification number, allowing for easy verification through the PCGS database. Owning a PCGS-certified MS64 1911-D Double Eagle ensures the coin’s authenticity and condition are preserved for generations to come, enhancing both its collectibility and long-term investment potential.
The historical context surrounding the 1911-D Saint-Gaudens $20 Gold Double Eagle deepens its significance. America in 1911 was a nation rapidly transitioning into a modern industrial power, yet still deeply connected to the ideals and imagery of its frontier past. Gold coins like the Double Eagle were symbols of economic strength and stability, widely used in large transactions and bank reserves. The artistry of the Saint-Gaudens design, coupled with the historical backdrop of Roosevelt’s ambitious coinage reform program, reflects a unique period when American money was intentionally elevated to represent national pride and artistic achievement. Each surviving Double Eagle from this era is a tangible link to a dynamic and transformative chapter of American history, making them highly desirable for collectors who appreciate both numismatic and historical importance.
The market for Certified $20 Saint-Gaudens 1911-D MS64 PCGS coins remains robust and dynamic, driven by strong demand from collectors, investors, and those who appreciate the extraordinary beauty and historical resonance of the series. MS64 examples represent an ideal combination of quality and relative affordability compared to the exponentially higher prices of gem MS65 and better specimens. The 1911-D, with its modest original mintage, low surviving population, and the prestige associated with Denver Mint issues, continues to see strong interest, particularly among those building complete date/mintmark sets or focused on early Saint-Gaudens issues. The scarcity of high-grade survivors and the timeless allure of Saint-Gaudens’ artistry ensure that demand for coins like the 1911-D MS64 will remain strong for years to come.
The Certified $20 Saint-Gaudens 1911-D MS64 PCGS stands as a shining testament to the artistic, historical, and economic vitality of early 20th-century America. With its breathtaking design by Augustus Saint-Gaudens, its connection to a pivotal period in U.S. history, its comparatively limited mintage, and its outstanding preservation, this coin captures the essence of what makes numismatics such a rich and rewarding pursuit. Whether appreciated for its technical excellence, its visual beauty, or its place in the broader story of American coinage, the 1911-D MS64 Double Eagle remains a treasure of enduring value and significance, offering collectors a rare opportunity to own a piece of the nation's proud monetary and artistic legacy.