1861-S Coronet Head Gold $20 Double Eagle: Paquet Reverse

The 1861-S Coronet Head Gold $20 Double Eagle with the Paquet Reverse is a notable and rare coin in American numismatics. Here's an overview of its key features:

Obverse Design: The obverse of the coin features the left-facing bust of Lady Liberty wearing a coronet inscribed with the word "LIBERTY." She is surrounded by thirteen stars representing the original thirteen colonies, with the date "1861" below her bust.

Reverse Design: The reverse of the coin was designed by Anthony C. Paquet, a Philadelphia-based engraver, who modified the traditional reverse design for the 1861-S Double Eagles.

The Paquet Reverse features a majestic eagle with outstretched wings, clutching an olive branch and arrows in its talons. The eagle is encircled by the inscription "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" and the denomination "TWENTY D."

Mintage: The 1861-S Coronet Head Gold $20 Double Eagle with the Paquet Reverse is renowned for its low mintage and rarity. Due to production issues and concerns about the design's suitability for circulation, only a small number of coins were struck with the Paquet Reverse.

Historical Significance: The introduction of the Paquet Reverse for the 1861-S Double Eagles was an attempt to improve the design aesthetics of the coin.

However, the modified design caused technical issues during the minting process, particularly with the high relief of the eagle's wings. As a result, the production of coins with the Paquet Reverse was short-lived, adding to their historical significance and collectibility.

Numismatic Value: The 1861-S Coronet Head Gold $20 Double Eagle with the Paquet Reverse is considered one of the rarest and most valuable coins in American numismatics. Surviving examples are highly coveted by collectors and investors, commanding significant premiums at auctions and in the numismatic market.

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