1861 Clark, Gruber & Co. Twenty Dollar

Coin Details

Auction Record

$204,000 AU50 01-16-2022 Heritage Auctions

Description

The 1861 Clark, Gruber & Company Twenty Dollar Gold Piece is the second and final year of the firm's double eagle production, representing the culmination of their coining operation before its sale to the federal government. The 1861 redesign updated both sides with a refined Liberty head obverse and a more conventionally executed heraldic eagle reverse. The continuation of "PIKES PEAK GOLD" maintained the geographic brand identity. The $20 coin's substantial gold content made it both a powerful transaction tool and an inherent store of value. Clark, Gruber & Company's two years of double eagle production established a remarkable legacy. Their twenty-dollar coins consistently met or slightly exceeded their stated gold content, earning commercial trust that most private minters never achieved.

Rarity Notes

Rare. Estimated 15-25 surviving examples. Comparable in rarity to the 1860 issue. Auction prices range from $25,000 to $80,000.

Cross References

Kagin K-8; NGC #31189