The $20 Gold Double Eagle coin is one of a kind and among the rarest of coins. The coin became popular after the 1848 California Gold Rush, that created a steady supply of gold to the American people. The gold rush created demand for larger denominations of gold than the existing $10 dollar pieces. In February 1849, Congress authorized the striking of $20 gold coins, which were created by the very talented Chief-Engraver James Barton Longacre. Two trial patterns were struck in March 1850, even though it bears the date 1849. The second pattern has never been found. This coin began the series of gold 20$ that were issued between 1850 and 1907. The term "Double Eagle" is derived from the fact that the $10 coin is called an "Eagle". There are two types of Double Eagles, Liberties and Saints.

Double Eagle Liberty 1866-1907: From 1866 to 1876 the value on the double eagle read TWENTY D. Then, in 1877 it was changed to TWENTY DOLLARS to clarify the denomination. The obverse features Miss Liberty wearing a coronet inscribed “Liberty” surrounded by thirteen stars symbolizing the original colonies and the year it was engraved. On the reverse side a bald eagle stands tall with its wings spread clutching an olive branch and arrows in the claws with a shield across its chest. The United States of America is imprinted around the emblematic bird.
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