In numismatic parlance, a coin that grades MS65 or higher is known as a Gem Uncirculated specimen. This grading is reserved for coins with superb technical quality, outstanding eye appeal, and an unusually high level of preservation. For as long as the grade has existed, numismatists have been reluctant to award it unless clearly warranted. There’s an excellent reason why many vintage U.S. coins are scarce in MS65 condition—the standards for this grade are very strict.
Over the past several years, we’ve had the privilege of offering several vintage U.S. gold coins in Gem Uncirculated. Close followers of our Spotlight program have been given the opportunity to own $2.50 Indians, $5 Liberties, and $10 Liberties in this lofty grade. Curiously, however, we’ve rarely presented the $20 Liberty in MS65. This may seem unusual, as the $20 Liberty is actually one of the most common American gold coins.
Why exactly is the $20 Liberty so rare in MS65? The size of the coin and its open design are the culprits. $20 “Libs” were distributed in canvas bags, which allowed them to jostle against each other and pick up contact marks. Given their hefty weight, these Double Eagles are often seen with fairly large gouges.
On top of that, $20 Liberties have open “fields” (to use numismatic parlance) in between the portrait and the peripheral stars. This makes bag marks extremely visible – much more so than on a $20 Saint-Gaudens where design elements can lessen the visual impact of a flaw. To make matters worse, the cheek on Liberty’s face is a prime focal point that’s often seen with scuffs and friction. Given all this, it’s easy to see why $20 Liberties hardly ever qualify for the MS65 grade!
The NGC Population Reports confirm how unusual “Gem Uncirculated” $20 Liberties truly are. They have graded over 760,000 Liberty Double Eagles in all dates and grades, but fewer than 2% of those coins were certified as MS65!
There’s one more reason why the $20 Liberty has rarely been offered to you in MS65. In order for us to recommend a coin, it must have a combination of rarity and value. In recent months, the MS65 $20 Liberty has corrected to an extremely reasonable price level. These coins peaked at over $7,000 during the 2008-2010 financial crisis, when gold was surging and new investors entered the market. Today, meanwhile, they can be had for less than $5,000 per coin.
We could easily round up a few hundred MS65 $20 Saints—but finding just a dozen Gem-quality $20 Liberties was a major challenge. It’s also worth noting that MS65 $20 Liberties are 11 times rarer than their Saint-Gaudens counterpart; yet, they sell for less than double the price.
Today's Offer
Take advantage of this chance to own one of the most popular U.S. gold coins in truly exceptional grade. We have exactly 11 of these coins left; be sure to reserve yours now while our limited quantity remains!
Don't delay. Please call us today at 800-831-0007 or email us to purchase your 1904 $20 Liberty in MS65.
*Prices subject to change based on market fluctuation and product availability. Prices reflected are for cash, check, or bank wire. Free shipping, handling, and insurance are available for all quantities ordered. Grading service selection is random and depends on availability. Offer expires Friday, January 21, 2022, or while supplies last.