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The 1912 Saint-Gaudens $20 Gold Double Eagle certified MS63 by PCGS stands as a refined example of early 20th-century American coinage and artistry. This coin belongs to the celebrated Saint-Gaudens series, introduced in 1907 and widely regarded as the most beautiful gold coin design ever produced by the United States Mint. Commissioned by President Theodore Roosevelt and created by renowned sculptor Augustus Saint-Gaudens, the series marked a bold step forward in the aesthetic and symbolic expression of U.S. coinage. The 1912 issue is part of the regular annual production run from the Philadelphia Mint, reflecting a time of economic prosperity before the disruptions of World War I. As a certified Mint State 63 specimen, this coin combines both historical resonance and collector-grade preservation, making it an appealing acquisition for investors and numismatists alike.
The obverse of the Saint-Gaudens double eagle features a magnificent depiction of Liberty striding confidently forward, holding a torch in her right hand symbolizing enlightenment and an olive branch in her left representing peace. Behind her, the sun rises over the U.S. Capitol dome, radiating optimism and national purpose. The word “LIBERTY” arches above her head, and a ring of stars—46 in total—encircles the edge, symbolizing the states of the Union at that time. The date “1912” is placed to the right of Liberty’s foot. This design, with its classical elegance and dynamic composition, was meant to echo ancient Greek coinage while capturing the forward-moving spirit of early 20th-century America. The reverse portrays a powerful bald eagle in flight above the rising sun, with the inscriptions “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA,” “TWENTY DOLLARS,” and the national motto “IN GOD WE TRUST,” which had been added beginning in mid-1908 after public pressure.
Struck at the Philadelphia Mint, the 1912 Saint-Gaudens double eagle had a total mintage of 149,750 coins, one of the lower outputs among Philadelphia issues of the series. While not exceedingly rare in circulated grades, the 1912 becomes much scarcer in higher Mint State grades, particularly those graded MS63 and above. As with other pre-1933 gold coins, many were melted during the government’s gold recall of the 1930s, initiated under President Franklin D. Roosevelt. Relatively few examples were stored in Treasury vaults or sent overseas, limiting the number of high-grade survivors available to modern collectors. Though it does not reach the rarity levels of the 1920-S or 1921 double eagles, the 1912 issue holds a favorable balance of collectibility, low mintage, and aesthetic appeal, especially when found in Mint State with certified third-party authentication.
The PCGS MS63 designation ensures that the coin is in Choice Uncirculated condition. In this grade, a coin will retain full original mint luster, showing no signs of wear from circulation. It may exhibit moderate contact marks, light abrasions, or minor scuffing in the fields or on the high points of the design—especially common for such a large and heavy gold coin. Despite these slight imperfections, the coin’s eye appeal remains strong, and the devices remain sharply struck. PCGS, or the Professional Coin Grading Service, is known for its strict grading standards and provides assurance to collectors and investors regarding authenticity and condition. The encapsulation protects the coin in a tamper-evident holder and includes a barcode and certification number for traceability.
The surfaces of a 1912 double eagle in MS63 often display bright, frosty mint luster, particularly in the protected areas around Liberty and the eagle. Strike quality is generally strong, with full detail visible in the flowing drapery, facial features, and olive branch on the obverse, as well as in the eagle’s wings and sunburst lines on the reverse. Contact marks may appear in the fields or on Liberty’s leg or shield area, typical for the grade, but none should be overly distracting. Some specimens may show light toning, ranging from gold and peach to olive and rose, depending on the coin’s storage environment over the past century. Overall, MS63 examples present a desirable combination of beauty and affordability, offering visual appeal without the high cost of Gem Mint State coins.
As a bullion coin, the 1912 Saint-Gaudens double eagle contains 0.9675 troy ounces of gold, with a total weight of 33.436 grams and a diameter of 34 millimeters. The composition is 90% gold and 10% copper, a standard alloy intended to increase durability during circulation. These coins were primarily used in large commercial transactions and as reserves for banks, often stored in bags and vaults rather than being widely circulated. Although gold coins like this one circulated less frequently than silver or base-metal coins, many still suffered handling, which makes certified Mint State examples, especially those in MS63 and higher, considerably more desirable to modern collectors.
The 1912 Saint-Gaudens is an important date for collectors pursuing a complete set by year and mint mark, particularly because it is one of the lower-mintage Philadelphia issues. While not as rare or valuable as some of the elusive S-mint or D-mint issues in the series, it is still a key date in any high-grade set. It is also ideal for collectors seeking a pre-World War I gold coin that combines precious metal content with numismatic significance. Its presence in a PCGS holder also enhances its liquidity, as buyers in the modern marketplace rely on established third-party grading services to verify quality and condition. Coins like this also appeal to investors looking for gold-backed assets that offer both intrinsic value and historical importance.
In terms of market appeal, the 1912 $20 Saint-Gaudens in MS63 has consistently attracted strong demand. Its relatively low mintage, historical context, and beautiful design elevate it above more common dates. While more expensive than mass-released late-date double eagles, it remains reasonably priced compared to the series’ rarest coins. Many collectors pursue the 1912 issue as a midpoint in a 50-coin Saint-Gaudens collection, or as an early example of the series with the "IN GOD WE TRUST" motto. The coin’s PCGS certification provides confidence in its value and makes it eligible for inclusion in registered competitive sets on platforms such as the PCGS Set Registry.
In conclusion, the Certified 1912 Saint-Gaudens $20 Gold Double Eagle graded MS63 by PCGS is a prized artifact of American numismatic art and monetary history. With its iconic design by Augustus Saint-Gaudens, relatively low mintage from the Philadelphia Mint, and excellent preservation in a choice uncirculated state, this coin represents both a beautiful collectible and a secure store of value. Its brilliant luster, sharp strike, and PCGS encapsulation make it a standout piece in any collection. As a tangible symbol of early 20th-century American strength and artistic ambition, the 1912 double eagle continues to command admiration from collectors, investors, and historians alike.