Loved for Its Beauty—A Collector Favorite
The Saint-Gaudens $20 Double Eagle is widely considered the most beautiful coin ever produced by the United States Mint. Commissioned by President Theodore Roosevelt and designed by master sculptor Augustus Saint-Gaudens, the coin debuted in 1907 and forever changed American coinage.
Today, these historic pieces remain among the most desirable pre-1933 gold coins, prized for both artistry and investment strength.
1907 High Relief – No Motto
The original 1907 issue was struck in breathtaking High Relief, creating exceptional depth and sculptural detail. These early pieces were produced without the motto “IN GOD WE TRUST”, often referred to as “No Motto” examples.
Because of their limited production and extraordinary design, 1907 High Relief Double Eagles represent some of the finest and rarest investment-quality U.S. gold coins available to collectors today.
1908 – Both Motto and No Motto
In late 1907, relief was reduced to improve striking efficiency. Early 1908 coins continued without the motto. However, after Congressional mandate, “IN GOD WE TRUST” was added later that same year.
As a result, 1908 Double Eagles were minted in both No Motto and With Motto varieties, creating an important transitional opportunity for collectors.
1908–1933 With Motto Business Production
From mid-1908 until the gold recall of 1933, all Saint-Gaudens Double Eagles were struck with the motto. Saints were moved from the U.S. Mint into banks immediately. The 1933 gold recall dramatically reduced surviving populations, particularly in higher Mint State grades.
High Relief vs Motto Comparison
| Feature | 1907 High Relief | 1908 No Motto | 1908–1933 With Motto |
|---|---|---|---|
| Relief | High | Low | Low |
| Motto | No | No | Yes |
| Rarity | Very Limited | Scarcer | More Available |
Investment Strength
Each Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle contains nearly one ounce of gold, but intrinsic value is only part of the story. Surviving examples in high Mint State grades are increasingly scarce, particularly early High Relief and No Motto pieces.
At RareCoins.com, we specialize in locating the finest and rarest examples of investment-quality pre-1933 gold coins, helping collectors build long-term tangible wealth backed by historic American gold.
Explore more: $20 Saint-Gaudens Collection | Gold Investment Guide