Type 1 Liberty Head Double Eagle coins have been popular with coin collectors for several generations, and their appeal continues to grow. With the discovery of thousands of high-grade, formerly rare issues in the S.S. Central America and S.S. Brother Jonathon shipwreck treasures, they have received tremendous publicity in both the numismatic and non-numismatic press. As a result, the $20 Double Eagles are positioned for an incredibly bright future.This article offers several ways to collect these iconic coins and valuable insights to better understand the beauty and rarity of Type 1 Double Eagles for collectors at every level.

Why Collect Type 1 Liberty Head Double Eagle Coins?

Collectors are drawn to these coins for a variety of compelling reasons:

Historical significance: Struck between 1850 and 1866, a period of growth, conflict, and recovery in the U.S., these coins represent tangible pieces of American history.
High intrinsic value: As the first Double Eagles and highest denomination coins struck for circulation during their time, they carry considerable value.
Attractive design: These coins are large, beautiful, and embody a remarkable era in American history.
Mass Appeal: Lower-grade coins are plentiful for novice collectors, while rare dates challenge advanced collectors.

Ways to Collect $20 Double Eagle Coins

Collectors can take various approaches to building a significant Type 1 Liberty Head Double Eagle collection. Here are a few particularly interesting strategies:

Collecting Gold Double Eagles as ‘Type’ Coins

‘Type’ coin collectors search for a representative example of specific types or designs to form a set. For Type 1 Double Eagles, collectors might focus on coins like the 1861 or notable shipwreck coins such as the 1856-S or 1857-S from the S.S. Central America.

A well-rounded type set could include a common date from the 1850s (1851 or 1852) and a date from the 1860s (1861). Higher-grade examples, such as Mint State-61 to Mint State-65, provide both historical appeal and value.

Collecting Type 1 Double Eagle Gold by Production Mint

Collectors may focus on coins minted at specific locations—Philadelphia, New Orleans, and San Francisco—to assemble a complete set of dates and varieties.

Each mint offers unique challenges and opportunities for collectors:

Philadelphia: Produced 17 collectible Double Eagles, including rare dates like the 1853/2 and 1863. While circulated grades are attainable, uncirculated examples are extremely rare.
New Orleans: Struck 12 Double Eagles, ranging from common issues (1851-O and 1852-O) to highly coveted rarities like the 1854-O and 1856-O, which are difficult to find and command high prices.
San Francisco: Known for 14 Double Eagles, including two varieties from 1861. Shipwreck discoveries have made this set more accessible, though the 1861-S Paquet reverse remains unattainable in Mint State.

Collecting Double Eagle Gold Coins by Mintage Year

Year-based collectors focus on acquiring one coin from each year Type 1 Double Eagles were produced (1849-1866).

For example, a collector might seek the most affordable issues from each year. For 1861, the Philadelphia Mint produced the most accessible coin, whereas 1866 coins are harder to find, as only the San Francisco Mint struck Type 1 Double Eagles that year before switching to the Type 1I design.

Assembling a Complete Set of Type 1 Double Eagles

Challenging but highly rewarding, assembling a complete set of Type 1 Double Eagles requires effort, dedication, and patience. To do so, one must collect all coins minted from 1850 to 1866.

A full set consists of all 43 issues, including the rare 1853/2 and 1861-S Paquet reverse. Some collectors will also include the 1854 Small Date and Large Date varieties, increasing the total to 44. In these types of sets, collectors often choose to include rarer coins in lower grades and more common coins available in higher grades for budgetary reasons.

To assemble a well-matched collection with a cohesive visual appeal, follow these practical guidelines:

Add coins in similar grades and with consistent appearances, including coloration.
Avoid mixing lower-grade coins like Very Fine-30 with higher-grade examples like Mint State-62.

Collecting Double Eagle Gold Coins by Die Variety

This method involves collecting coins based on different obverse and reverse die combinations used as dies wore out or replaced.

For example, collectors may focus on key diagnostic features like date and mintmark placement, die scratches, or die breaks to identify distinct varieties. Notable varieties, like the 1853/2, are particularly desirable.

Collecting Type 1 Double Eagle Proofs

Proof collecting can be very rewarding but is not for the faint of heart. It can be time-consuming and expensive, as these coins are usually minted in very limited numbers and highly prized by serious collectors.

Collecting Type 1 Proof Double Eagles (1859-1865) is no exception. Assembling a full set takes significant resources, with most examples found in Proof-63 to Proof-64 condition, while coins graded Proof-65 and above are extremely rare.

In Summary

Type 1 Liberty Head Double Eagle Gold Coins provide a rich history, striking design, and options for collectors of all levels. From building type sets to collecting by mint or assembling a complete set, these coins remain a timeless addition to any collection. For more information about these fascinating coins or to buy Type 1 Double Eagles for your growing collection, contact Finest Known today.