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The Certified U.S. Gold $20 Liberty 1895-S MS63 PCGS is a premium-quality Mint State example of one of America’s most iconic gold coin series, produced during the height of U.S. economic expansion in the late 19th century. Graded MS63 by PCGS (Professional Coin Grading Service), this Liberty Head Double Eagle offers full strike sharpness, vibrant luster, and excellent eye appeal, while exhibiting only minor contact marks typical of the grade. As a product of the renowned San Francisco Mint, the 1895-S stands as a testament to the West Coast's pivotal role in American gold coin production and remains a sought-after issue among collectors and investors of pre-1933 U.S. gold.
The obverse features the classic design of Lady Liberty created by Chief Engraver James B. Longacre. She is portrayed facing left, wearing a coronet inscribed with “LIBERTY,” her hair tied in a bun with ringlets cascading down the neck. Thirteen six-pointed stars representing the original colonies encircle her profile, and the date “1895” is boldly positioned beneath. In Mint State 63 condition, Liberty’s features are sharply defined, with crisp lines in the hair, tiara, and facial profile. The fields are bright and retain a satiny or semi-prooflike sheen, with only a few minor contact marks visible under magnification—mostly located in the open areas of the obverse, such as the cheek and field to the left of Liberty’s face.
The reverse displays the Type III Double Eagle design, introduced in 1877, which spells out the denomination as “TWENTY DOLLARS.” A powerful heraldic eagle is centered, bearing a shield across its chest while holding an olive branch and arrows in its talons. Above the eagle’s head is a scroll inscribed “IN GOD WE TRUST,” with thirteen stars arranged in a semicircle. Surrounding legends read “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” and the denomination. Beneath the eagle is the “S” mintmark, signifying its origin at the San Francisco Mint. In MS63 condition, this reverse is bold and fully struck, with excellent definition in the wings, talons, and shield, along with minimal abrasions and strong visual clarity.
The coin is composed of 90% gold and 10% copper, weighs 33.44 grams, and measures 34 millimeters in diameter, with a total gold content of 0.9675 troy ounces. As the largest denomination in regular circulation at the time, the $20 Double Eagle was used for large financial transactions, international payments, and as a reserve asset by banks. The San Francisco Mint was the most prolific producer of this denomination during the late 19th century, converting the region’s vast gold output into hard currency for domestic and global commerce. The high quality and reliability of San Francisco’s gold coinage made its products widely respected and trusted in the marketplace.
The mintage of the 1895-S Double Eagle was 1,143,500 coins, a healthy production figure. However, only a fraction of those coins survive in high Mint State grades today. Most were circulated, exported, or melted, especially during the gold recalls of the 20th century. PCGS population data reveals that while lower Mint State examples (MS60–MS62) are somewhat available, true MS63 examples—particularly those with above-average surfaces and eye appeal—are considerably scarcer and more desirable. This coin, certified MS63, falls into a coveted range where quality and relative affordability converge, making it a popular choice for collectors building type sets or assembling high-grade Liberty Head date runs.
PCGS’s MS63 grade signifies a coin that is fully uncirculated with no signs of wear, possessing a strong strike and good luster. Contact marks may be present but are generally light, well-scattered, and not overly distracting. MS63 coins are known for offering excellent eye appeal while avoiding the price premiums associated with MS64 and MS65 examples, which are considerably rarer for this issue. This 1895-S shows all the hallmarks of the grade, with a smooth obverse and reverse, intact rims, and pleasing cartwheel luster that brings the devices into strong visual relief.
Visually, 1895-S Double Eagles in MS63 often exhibit vibrant golden coloration, sometimes accented with subtle rose or orange tones from the copper alloy. San Francisco Mint coins are noted for their precision strike quality, and this example exemplifies that trait. The frosted devices contrast nicely with the reflective fields, and the coin’s overall brilliance enhances its display presence. Its well-defined details and classic design make it an appealing piece for both historical appreciation and aesthetic enjoyment.
Historically, the year 1895 was a period of economic recovery and continued industrial advancement in the United States, following the Panic of 1893. The American economy was rebuilding strength, and the Double Eagle remained a key tool of national finance. Used in domestic reserve holdings and international gold settlements, the coin served as a foundation of the U.S. monetary system. The San Francisco Mint’s contributions were instrumental in supporting commerce across the Pacific and ensuring a stable supply of large-denomination gold coinage during a time of expanding trade and financial influence.
Today, the Certified U.S. Gold $20 Liberty 1895-S MS63 PCGS is an ideal choice for serious numismatists, gold coin enthusiasts, and long-term investors. It combines the historic appeal of the Liberty Head series with the scarcity and visual excellence of a higher Mint State grade. With its impressive gold content, PCGS certification, and San Francisco provenance, this coin stands out as a beautiful and meaningful addition to any collection. Whether used as a hedge against inflation, a component of a pre-1933 gold portfolio, or a standout piece in a display of American coinage, the 1895-S MS63 delivers both substance and significance in a timeless format.