The 1859-O Coronet Head Gold $20 Double Eagle is a captivating coin with significant historical importance and numismatic appeal. Designed by James B. Longacre, the Coronet Head design features Lady Liberty facing left, wearing a coronet inscribed with the word "LIBERTY."
The obverse also showcases thirteen stars representing the original colonies and the date "1859" below Liberty's portrait.
On the reverse of the coin, an eagle with outstretched wings holds an olive branch and arrows in its talons, with a shield at its breast. The denomination "TWENTY D." is inscribed below the eagle.
The "O" mint mark indicates that the coin was struck at the New Orleans Mint in Louisiana. Established in 1838, the New Orleans Mint played a crucial role in producing gold coins, particularly to facilitate commerce in the southern United States.
The 1859-O Coronet Head Gold $20 Double Eagle is noteworthy for being struck during a period of economic growth and prosperity in the United States, just prior to the outbreak of the Civil War.
Gold coins like the Double Eagle were widely used in commerce and trade, serving as a reliable form of currency.
Due to its historical significance and relative scarcity, the 1859-O Coronet Head Gold $20 Double Eagle is highly sought after by collectors. Its value is influenced by factors such as its condition, rarity, and demand among collectors.
Minted during the height of the California Gold Rush, this coin reflects the nation's rapid expansion and the demand for reliable currency in the western territories.