The 1927-D Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle is the rarest US gold coin of the 20th century. In January 2025, a special series of this coin, which was graded PCGS MS65+ CAC, was sold for around $3.84 million (approximately Rs 32 crores). This indicates its utmost rarity and historical value.
History of 1927-D Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle
This legendary coin was crafted by world-renowned sculptor Augustus Saint-Gaudens and was produced from 1907 to 1933. But the 1927-D version was produced at the Denver Mint and its scarcity makes it extraordinary.
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Important Features:
| Features | Description |
|---|---|
| Issue Year | 1927 |
| Denefit | $20 (Double Eagle) |
| Mintmark | D (Denver Mint) |
| Number (Mintage) | 180,000 coins |
| Metal Content | 90% Gold, 10% Copper |
| Weight | 33.436 g |
| Diameter | 34 mm |
| Border | With letters: “E PLURIBUS UNUM” |
| Designer | Augustus Saint-Gaudens |
Why is the 1927-D Double Eagle so scarce?
Even though 180,000 coins were produced in 1927, this coin is very rare today. The primary reason for this was the ‘Gold Recall Order’ given by the US government in 1933. According to this order, the majority of the gold coins were melted and added to the government gold reserve. Due to this reason, only 14 to 15 coins of the 1927-D Double Eagle are present in private collectors and museums today.
Auction Market Performance and Notable Sales
The 1927-D Double Eagle coin has consistently brought high prices in auction, rendering it a collector’s and investor’s highly sought-after piece.
Important Sales Records:
| Date | Grade | Auction Price | Auction House |
|---|---|---|---|
| January 2025 | MS65+ CAC | $3,840,000 | Great Collections |
| January 2020 | MS65+ | $2,160,000 | Heritage Auctions |
| January 2006 | MS66 | $1,900,000+ | North American Certified Trading |
| August 2005 | MS67 | $1,897,500 | Heritage Auctions |
It is evident from this record that the 1927-D Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle has only become more valuable with the passage of time.
Institutional Collections and Historical Significance
Some renowned institutions have this coin in their collections:
- Smithsonian Institution – Conserves three coins of 1927-D, which are critical for educational purposes and historical studies of coins.
- Connecticut History Museum – Conserves an unusual 1927-D coin, which exemplifies local historic importance.
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Conclusion
The 1927-D Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle is not merely a scarce and precious coin, but a living symbol of America’s economic, political, and historical topography. Its rarity, beauty, and historical significance are such that it is a priceless treasure for both investors and collectors.
FAQs
Q1. Why is the 1927-D Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle so rare?
Most of the 180,000 minted coins were melted down due to the 1933 Gold Recall, leaving only around 14 to 15 known surviving examples.
Q2. How much did the highest-selling 1927-D Double Eagle fetch at auction?
In January 2025, a specimen graded MS65+ CAC sold for $3.84 million at GreatCollections.
Q3. What makes the Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle significant?
Designed by Augustus Saint-Gaudens, it is considered one of the most beautiful U.S. gold coins ever minted.
Q4. Where can one see a 1927-D Double Eagle?
Some specimens are housed in institutions like the Smithsonian Institution and the Museum of Connecticut History.
Q5. What is the composition of the 1927-D Double Eagle?
It is made of 90% gold and 10% copper, with a weight of 33.436 grams and a diameter of 34 mm.