Rare 1879 O Coronet Head Gold $20 Double Eagle Coin Surfaces at Auction

The 1879 O Coronet Head Gold $20 Double Eagle is a coin that holds both historical significance and high value for collectors and investors alike. Minted by the United States in 1879, this gold coin has captured the attention of numismatists due to its rarity, craftsmanship, and its role in the economy of the late 19th century. In this article, we’ll dive deep into the features of the 1879 O Coronet Head Gold $20 Double Eagle, explore its background, value, and the factors that make it a prized possession.

Introduction to the 1879 O Coronet Head Gold $20 Double Eagle

The 1879 O Coronet Head Gold $20 Double Eagle is a member of the Double Eagle series, which is one of the most iconic gold coins in American history. The Double Eagle was primarily used for large transactions and was often used in international trade. The coin was initially designed by James B. Longacre, with a design featuring Lady Liberty on the obverse and an eagle on the reverse.

The “O” mintmark on this particular coin signifies that it was minted in New Orleans, Louisiana, which is one of the United States’ historical mints. New Orleans was responsible for producing many key coins during the 19th century, and the 1879 O Double Eagle stands out due to its limited mintage.

Features of the 1879 O Coronet Head Gold $20 Double Eagle

Obverse Design
The obverse of the 1879 O Coronet Head Gold $20 Double Eagle features a left-facing portrait of Lady Liberty. She is wearing a coronet, or crown, that inscribed with the word “LIBERTY.” Surrounding the portrait are 13 stars, which represent the 13 original colonies of the United States. The design was created by James B. Longacre, the Chief Engraver of the U.S. Mint at the time.

Reverse Design
On the reverse, you’ll see a powerful eagle, its wings spread, holding an olive branch in one talon and a bundle of arrows in the other. The eagle is perched on a shield and is encircled by the words “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” and “TWENTY DOLLARS.” The reverse design symbolizes strength and the power of the United States.

Mintmark and Mintage
The “O” mintmark on this coin indicates that it was produced in the New Orleans Mint. The mintmark is located below the eagle’s tail on the reverse side of the coin. As for the mintage, only 3,200 coins were struck at the New Orleans Mint in 1879, making this coin extremely rare compared to other issues in the Double Eagle series.

Historical Context of the 1879 O Coronet Head Gold $20 Double Eagle

The 1879 O Coronet Head Gold $20 Double Eagle was produced during a period when the United States was transitioning from a bimetallic system to a gold-standard currency system. The country was recovering from the aftermath of the Civil War, and the U.S. Mint was actively producing gold and silver coins to stabilize the economy.

In 1879, the economy was improving, but the U.S. Mint faced challenges in producing enough gold coins to meet the demands of trade and commerce. The 1879 O Double Eagle was minted during this time, with relatively low production numbers. The New Orleans Mint produced coins at a slower rate than some of the other mints, which is part of the reason why the 1879 O Double Eagle is so rare today.

The Value of the 1879 O Coronet Head Gold $20 Double Eagle

The value of the 1879 O Coronet Head Gold $20 Double Eagle is influenced by several factors, including its rarity, condition, and historical significance. Given that only 3,200 of these coins were minted, they are considered highly valuable to collectors. The coin’s price can fluctuate depending on the market, but in general, it can range from $20,000 to over $100,000 for a coin in excellent condition. Coins with higher grades, such as those rated MS63 or above, tend to fetch the highest prices at auctions and private sales.

Collectors are particularly drawn to the 1879 O Double Eagle because of its limited mintage, making it a sought-after item for anyone who specializes in gold coins or U.S. Mint history.

Why is the 1879 O Coronet Head Gold $20 Double Eagle So Valuable?

1. Rarity: With only 3,200 coins minted, the 1879 O Double Eagle is extremely rare.
2. Historical Significance: The coin was minted during a pivotal time in U.S. history, shortly after the Civil War.
3. Gold Content: As a $20 gold coin, the 1879 O Double Eagle contains nearly one ounce of pure gold.
4. Minting Errors: Any coin with minting errors can increase its value, as collectors seek these rare pieces.

How to Buy or Sell an 1879 O Coronet Head Gold $20 Double Eagle

If you’re interested in purchasing or selling an 1879 O Coronet Head Gold $20 Double Eagle, it’s important to consult with reputable coin dealers or auction houses. Since the coin is so valuable, make sure you are dealing with trustworthy sources to ensure authenticity and fair pricing. When buying, you should also check for certification from a well-known grading service like the Numismatic Guaranty Corporation (NGC) or Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS).

Table: Key Facts about the 1879 O Coronet Head Gold $20 Double Eagle

Feature	Details
Mintmark	“O” (New Orleans)
Year Minted	1879
Mintage	3,200 coins
Diameter	34 mm
Weight	33.44 grams (1.09 oz)
Metal Content	90% Gold, 10% Copper
Obverse Design	Lady Liberty with a coronet
Reverse Design	Eagle with olive branch and arrows
Market Value (Approx.)	$20,000 – $100,000 or more, depending on condition

Conclusion

The 1879 O Coronet Head Gold $20 Double Eagle is a rare and valuable piece of U.S. coinage. Its historical significance, stunning design, and limited mintage make it highly sought after by collectors. Whether you’re a seasoned numismatist or just getting started, this coin is a fascinating part of U.S. history and a great addition to any collection.

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