The “Roaring Twenties” marked a period of intense demand for American gold coinage. This was especially true from 1924-1928, when both the U.S. and European economies were in full recovery from World War I. Banks, governments, and institutions found themselves flush with cash – and many chose to hold those funds in the form of U.S. gold coins.
This phenomenon can be seen in $20 Double Eagle mintages. None were made from 1917 through 1919, but production resumed in 1920. Mintages remained somewhat light in 1920-1921, increased somewhat in 1922-1923, then peaked from 1924-1928. As one can expect, come 1929, the Mint drastically curtailed production – and ended up melting significant quantities before they were released
Today, there’s a common assumption that all $20 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagles from 1924-1928 are common. This is largely true – but not entirely. First, all Denver and San Francisco issues from this time period are significantly rarer. Secondly, there is a “sleeper” Philadelphia date hiding in this date range. The 1926 $20 Saint is noticeably scarcer than its Philadelphia “neighbors” yet sells for a tiny premium!
David Akers, in his reference book for Double Eagles, remarked that the 1926 $20 is “a distinct step higher in overall population rarity and condition rarity than such truly common issues as the 1924, 1927 and 1928 with which it is generally, but incorrectly, associated.”
Akers’ comments were penned before PCGS and NGC population reports came into usage, but these stats proved him right. The NGC Population Report shows that the 1926, compared to the generic 1924 date, is six times rarer in MS64, nine times better in MS65, and a full eleven times scarcer at the MS66 level:
There’s one other reason to like the 1926 Philadelphia Saint; it’s known for having superb eye appeal. Once again, quoting David Akers: “The 1926 is always very sharply struck with full frosty surfaces and very good to excellent lustre. Color varies, but rich yellow orange gold or greenish gold are predominant.”
We’re excited to offer a small run of 1926 $20 Saints in PCGS/NGC MS64 through MS66. Consistent with Akers’ description, all display strong mint “flash” with clean surfaces and superb eye appeal. Not only are these rarer than the typical $20 Saint, but these 1926-dated specimens have especially impressive aesthetics.
Today's Offer
Whether you’re looking to expand your $20 Saint collection – or diversify your holdings with value-priced numismatic gold – this represents an intriguing opportunity.
Our quantities are limited, so please reach out quickly to take advantage of this unusual offering! Take advantage of this special offer by calling us at 800-831-0007, or by email at infoasi@assetstrategies.com.
*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. Offer expires Friday, January 22, 2021, or while supplies last.