1854 (S) Liberty Head Double Eagle - Specimen
Strike Type
Coin Details
Description
The 1854 (S) Liberty Head Double Eagle - Specimen is a special strike Gold Double Eagle struck at the San Francisco Mint, part of the Liberty Head Double Eagles 1849-1907 series. The Smithsonian's National Numismatic Collection holds this piece, catalogued there as a proof and described as the first double eagle struck at the new San Francisco Mint. The Mint did not record proof or presentation strikes before 1858. The obverse features Liberty facing left wearing a coronet inscribed LIBERTY, while the reverse displays a heraldic eagle with shield on breast, olive branch and arrows in talons, with a banner reading E PLURIBUS UNUM surrounded by a glory of rays. Designed by James Barton Longacre. Struck in 90% gold, 10% copper, weighing 33.44 grams, 34 mm in diameter, with a reeded edge. Cataloged as PCGS #415629. The Liberty Head Double Eagle ($20 gold) was the largest regular-issue gold denomination, introduced in 1849 following the California Gold Rush. Shipwreck recoveries (SS Central America, SS Republic) have introduced thousands of pristine examples to the market.
External References
Error Varieties
No listings found
This category doesn't have any child listings yet.
Other Strike Types in This Series
Collector Essentials
Tools and references for building and protecting your coin collection.
10x-20x Jeweler's Loupe
A must-have for examining coin details, mint marks, and surface quality
Red Book — Guide to U.S. Coins
The essential annual reference for U.S. coin values, history, and mintages
Coin Albums & Storage
Archival-quality albums and holders to protect and display your collection
USB Digital Microscope
Capture detailed images for documentation and community submissions
As an Amazon Associate, NumisDex earns from qualifying purchases.