1854-S Double Eagle (1854-S $20) Liberty Type 1 Double Eagle, PCGS AU55. Bright surfaces show on this 1854-S double eagle as luster gleams within the protected areas of the obverse and is more complete on the reverse. Aside from one small contact mark on the chin, the obverse is clean and clear. Similarly, the reverse shows a couple of insignificant marks in the field and on the shield. There is some very slight wear on the high points of both sides, which accounts for the AU grade. The coin is well struck on both sides. Type 1’s are identified by the S touching or in this case being embedded in the eagle’s tail.

Longacre’s double eagles were in use from 1849 until their replacement by the Saint-Gaudens’ design in 1907. The first Coronet twenty dollar coin used the device of a Liberty Head Coronet, similar to the Large Cents of 1839-57. The motto E PLURIBUS UNUM was inscribed on a banner on both sides of the heraldic eagle. The double banner represented the new denomination, a double eagle. Above the eagle’s head is a circle of thirteen stars surrounded by rays. In 1866, the motto IN GOD WE TRUST was added into the enlarged circle of stars. In 1877 one more modification took place. The abbreviated denomination was replaced by the words TWENTY DOLLARS.

All early double eagles are scarce in mint state grades, and the 1854-S twenty dollar coin is scarce in all grades. According to the PCGS population reports, only 23 coins have been graded About Uncirculated 55. This coin would be an excellent choice for your collection or as part of a solid coin investment plan.