The 1933 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle is an extraordinary piece of American numismatic history. Initially minted as a $20 gold coin, it now holds the distinction of being one of the most expensive coins ever sold, fetching a record-breaking $18.9 million at auction.
This coin’s rarity, design, and fascinating legal battles have propelled it into the spotlight, captivating collectors and history enthusiasts alike.
1933 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle
The 1933 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle was created during a time of significant economic turmoil in the United States. Designed by Augustus Saint-Gaudens, the coin featured Lady Liberty on one side and a flying eagle on the reverse.
Although over 400,000 coins were minted in 1933, none were officially released into circulation due to President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s Executive Order halting gold coinage. This decision aimed to combat the Great Depression by removing gold from everyday transactions.
Rarity and Controversy
The rarity of the 1933 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle is due to its unique history. After the Executive Order, most of the coins were melted down, leaving only a few surviving examples.
However, some coins made it into private hands, sparking decades of legal battles. The U.S. government argued that these coins were not legal to own, adding to their allure and mystique.
Historical Significance
This coin represents a turning point in U.S. monetary policy. It marked the end of gold coins as legal tender in the United States and the beginning of a new era in currency management.
The story of the 1933 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle is a testament to the intersection of art, economics, and politics.
Auction Record
In June 2021, a 1933 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle was sold at Sotheby’s for $18.9 million, setting a world record for the most expensive coin ever auctioned. This sale underscored the coin’s enduring value and importance to collectors and investors.
| Year Minted | Designer | Original Face Value | Auction Price | Metal Content | Weight (grams) | Diameter (mm) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1933 | Augustus Saint-Gaudens | $20 | $18.9 Million | Gold | 33.436 | 34.1 |
| 1907-1933 | Various Years | $20 | Varies | Gold | 33.436 | 34.1 |
| 1933 | N/A | $20 | Confiscated by Govt. | Gold | 33.436 | 34.1 |
| 1933 | Augustus Saint-Gaudens | $20 | Private Collections | Gold | 33.436 | 34.1 |
| 1933 | Augustus Saint-Gaudens | $20 | Court Battles | Gold | 33.436 | 34.1 |
| 2021 | Augustus Saint-Gaudens | $20 | $18.9 Million | Gold | 33.436 | 34.1 |
| 1933 | Augustus Saint-Gaudens | $20 | Value Varies | Gold | 33.436 | 34.1 |
The legacy of the 1933 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle extends far beyond its monetary value. It is a symbol of change, resilience, and the power of art in currency design.
This coin’s journey from being a $20 piece of legal tender to an $18 million masterpiece encapsulates a story of intrigue and historical significance.
Why is the 1933 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle so valuable?
The coin’s value lies in its rarity, historical significance, and the controversies surrounding its ownership.
How many 1933 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagles still exist?
It is believed that fewer than 15 examples are privately owned, with others held by the U.S. government.
Who designed the 1933 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle?
The coin was designed by Augustus Saint-Gaudens, a renowned sculptor and medalist.
