1908 Double Eagle Pattern - J-1925

Coin Details

Auction Record

$5,750 genuine 07-27-2008 Stack's

Description

Judd-1925 is the second cataloged 1908 double eagle pattern, distinct from J-1924 in die characteristics, composition, or striking format. This pattern continues the post-debut refinement of Saint-Gaudens' double eagle design, exploring modifications to the production version that had entered circulation in late 1907. A significant design change occurred in mid-1908 when Congress mandated the addition of the motto IN GOD WE TRUST to the double eagle and eagle, which Saint-Gaudens and Roosevelt had deliberately omitted from the original design. Roosevelt had argued that placing God's name on a coin that might be used for "immoral purposes" was close to sacrilege, but public pressure and Congressional action overrode his objections. J-1925 may relate to the design modifications necessary to incorporate the motto, which was added to the reverse above the sun between the eagle and the words TWENTY DOLLARS. The addition of the motto required rearranging the reverse design elements, and pattern strikings would have been necessary to evaluate different placements before finalizing the new die layout.

Rarity Notes

R-7 to R-8 (Extremely Rare). Like J-1924, this 1908 double eagle pattern variety survives in very small numbers.

Cross References

Judd J-1925, Pollock P-2115