The California Gold Rush of 1849 saw an enormous boom in the available supply of gold in our country. With all of this new gold, the U.S. government saw fit to strike a gold coin into circulation that would double the previously highest denomination of coin, which at the time was a Ten Dollar Gold Eagle. This new coin was configured to hold a denomination of twenty dollars, which was twice the value of the Gold Eagle. The coin then became known as the “Double Eagle.” Over a decade after it was originally struck, the 1860s U.S. $20 Gold “Liberty Head” Double Eagle would stand as the definitive gold piece in the country.

 

The 1860s U.S. $20 Gold “Liberty Head” Double Eagle was a pivotal coin in the development of U.S. currency. It was comprised of 90% gold and 10% copper, which amounted to a fine gold consistency of 0.900 (21.6 karats). Conveniently, the weight of each “Liberty Head” Double Eagle was 0.9675 troy ounces. This weight happened to line up perfectly with the price of gold at the time, which was $20.67 per troy ounce. This allowed the “Liberty Head” Double Eagles of the 1860s to hold a denomination of an even twenty dollars, again, twice that of the earlier $10 Gold Eagles.

 

Over the course of the last one hundred and fifty some years, the 1860s U.S. $20 Gold “Liberty Head” Double Eagle has increased in value almost sixty times its original denomination. The increase is due to the value of its gold content. Beyond that, these coins are not readily available, so their rarity makes them a valuable piece for collectors of Americana and numismatists alike. As the precious metals market continues to thrive, the price of gold has even doubled in the last ten years and is now over $1000 per troy ounce.  

 

If you’re interested in buying gold or other precious metals for strictly financial purposes, rather than numismatic or historical reasons, then there is hardly a better way to fortify and diversify your investment portfolio. While the economy is on shaky ground, and other conventional investment opportunities are not as stable as one might hope, the price of gold and silver continue to climb. When you want to see your investments do well and bring you untold future wealth, you are certainly not going to want to miss out on the potential within the precious metals market.

 

The consistent rising price of gold and the steadfast growth of the precious metals market has convinced some that diving straight in may be the best option. However, there are considerations that must be made before tossing caution to the wind. Due to various nuances and subtleties in the market, it is certainly most advantageous to seek out a highly knowledgeable and professional precious metals firm. A reputable precious metals firm will facilitate the acquisition of your 1860s U.S. $20 Gold “Liberty Head” Double Eagle coins. When you’re looking for the best, then look no further than Capital Gold Group.