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The 1911-S Saint-Gaudens $20 Gold Double Eagle is a distinguished and desirable issue within the celebrated Saint-Gaudens series, combining early 20th-century artistry with the allure of low-mintage branch mint production. Designed by renowned sculptor Augustus Saint-Gaudens at the request of President Theodore Roosevelt, the series represents the pinnacle of American numismatic design and symbolism. The 1911-S issue hails from the San Francisco Mint, which played a critical role in producing gold coinage for commerce in the American West. This coin's mintage, condition rarity, and striking design have made it a compelling target for collectors and investors alike, particularly in higher Mint State grades. The MS63 grade, certified by NGC (Numismatic Guaranty Company), designates this example as a choice uncirculated coin with strong visual appeal and investment potential.
Augustus Saint-Gaudens' design for the double eagle is widely regarded as the most beautiful in U.S. coinage history. The obverse features a striking image of Lady Liberty striding confidently forward from the Capitol, torch raised high in her right hand and an olive branch in her left, representing enlightenment and peace. Her flowing gown, wind-swept hair, and radiant background sunrays evoke the spirit of the American Renaissance in art. The reverse depicts a powerful eagle in flight above a rising sun, with the motto "IN GOD WE TRUST" included above the sun’s rays in this post-1908 example. The inscriptions “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” and “TWENTY DOLLARS” curve along the upper rim. Saint-Gaudens’ original high-relief vision had been modified in 1907 to accommodate mass production, and the 1911-S uses the low-relief version developed for ease of striking at the nation’s mints.
The 1911-S was struck at the San Francisco Mint, which had a long history of gold coinage production due to its proximity to West Coast bullion deposits. The total mintage for the 1911-S double eagle was 2,738,250 pieces, a moderate output compared to Philadelphia issues of the era but relatively high among branch-mint Saint-Gaudens coins. However, despite this seemingly healthy mintage, the number of surviving uncirculated examples is significantly limited due to heavy domestic circulation and melting under later U.S. gold recall programs. Unlike some other double eagles that were repatriated from European bank hoards, the 1911-S has far fewer survivors in Mint State grades, and specimens above MS62 remain scarce. In MS63, the 1911-S is a notable condition rarity, with strong demand among collectors seeking to assemble complete date-and-mint sets of the series.
As a certified MS63 example, this 1911-S double eagle has been professionally authenticated and graded by NGC, one of the most respected third-party grading companies in the world. MS63, or Mint State 63, is considered a Choice Uncirculated grade, indicating a coin that retains its original mint luster and exhibits no signs of wear from circulation. While some contact marks or small abrasions may be present, especially on the expansive open fields common to large gold coins, they are not severe enough to detract significantly from the coin’s overall eye appeal. In MS63, the coin is a strong combination of quality and value—possessing the brilliance and definition desired by advanced collectors, without the substantial premium attached to Gem or near-Gem examples in MS64 or MS65 grades.
The surfaces of a 1911-S Saint-Gaudens in MS63 typically showcase a frosty or satiny luster with bold devices and sharp details throughout. On the obverse, Lady Liberty’s figure and torch are well defined, with crisp lines along the gown and rays of the sun. On the reverse, the eagle’s feathers, beak, and talons exhibit strong detail, while the sun’s rays and surrounding inscriptions are clearly impressed. Some slight softness may be noted around the stars or lower sunburst, but overall strike quality is generally strong for the 1911-S. Minor contact marks may be visible under magnification, especially in the fields or on Liberty’s thigh and shield area, yet the coin retains an attractive appearance and lustrous brilliance, which is critical at this grade level.
Gold coins from the Saint-Gaudens series were composed of 90% gold and 10% copper, yielding a gross weight of 33.436 grams and a net gold content of 0.9675 troy ounces. Measuring 34 mm in diameter, these double eagles were used in significant commercial transactions and in global trade, with many shipped overseas. While the San Francisco Mint produced a number of double eagles for Western commerce, many 1911-S coins were eventually melted down during the 1930s in response to President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s Executive Order 6102, which called for the recall of gold coinage. As a result, survivors—particularly in high grades—are much scarcer today than the original mintage might suggest. The 1911-S is not typically found in European bank hoards, adding to its numismatic scarcity relative to other dates.
Collectors are drawn to the 1911-S not only for its design and San Francisco pedigree but also for its combination of scarcity and beauty. Within the context of early 20th-century U.S. gold, this issue stands as a significant collectible, especially for those pursuing a complete set of Saint-Gaudens double eagles by date and mint. Assembling a full set is a challenging and ambitious goal, and the 1911-S in MS63 is one of the more attainable branch-mint dates in the mid-grade Mint State range. Additionally, it appeals to investors seeking certified gold coins with historical, artistic, and bullion value, especially those housed in tamper-proof NGC holders that offer long-term security and marketability.
Market demand for the 1911-S in MS63 remains strong due to its eye appeal, condition rarity, and numismatic significance. While common-date Saint-Gaudens double eagles in similar grades may be readily available, the 1911-S commands a modest premium for its branch-mint origin and limited supply. Price trends over the past decade reflect increasing appreciation for better-date double eagles, particularly as gold prices fluctuate and interest in tangible assets grows. The NGC encapsulation assures buyers of the coin’s authenticity, grade, and long-term preservation, making it an ideal candidate for display, storage, or future resale.
In conclusion, the Certified 1911-S Saint-Gaudens $20 Gold Double Eagle graded MS63 by NGC represents a compelling blend of American history, classical design, and investment-grade precious metal content. With its majestic imagery by Augustus Saint-Gaudens, San Francisco Mint origin, and limited availability in high Mint State grades, this coin holds enduring appeal to collectors and investors alike. Its MS63 certification ensures it has retained strong luster, sharp details, and minimal abrasions—making it a prized addition to any advanced numismatic collection or diversified precious metals portfolio. For those seeking a distinguished piece from the golden age of U.S. coinage, the 1911-S double eagle in MS63 stands as an iconic and rewarding choice.