1866-1876 $20 Liberty Gold Double Eagle Type 2 VF

A tangible artifact of post-Civil War America, the Type 2 Liberty Gold Double Eagle features the first use of the motto "In God We Trust" on this iconic denomination. Struck from 1866 to 1876 and designed by James B. Longacre, these coins circulated during a pivotal era in U.S. history and contain nearly a full ounce of gold—making them a standout option for both value-conscious collectors and long-term investors.

Highlights

• Contains .9675 troy oz of gold (.900 fine)
• Very Fine (VF) condition: Moderate wear from circulation; major design elements remain clear with defined outlines
• Obverse: Liberty facing left, wearing a coronet inscribed "Liberty," encircled by 13 stars
• Reverse: Heraldic eagle with shield and 13 stars above, surrounded by "United States of America," denomination, and the motto "In God We Trust"
• Minted from 1866-1876 at Philadelphia, Carson City, Denver, New Orleans, or San Francisco
• Designed by James B. Longacre
• Dates and mintmarks selected at random based on inventory

Why Choose a VF Type 2 Double Eagle?

VF condition coins offer a cost-effective entry point into pre-1933 U.S. gold. While exhibiting moderate circulation wear, they retain strong historical integrity and display all major design details. For those seeking the gold content and historic significance of the Liberty Double Eagle without the higher premiums of AU or BU examples, VF coins deliver excellent value with long-term upside.

Historical Significance

Following the turmoil of the Civil War, the U.S. Mint updated the $20 gold piece to include "In God We Trust" in 1866. These Type 2 coins circulated heavily across a rebuilding nation and were frequently used in banking and international commerce. Most surviving examples were later melted during the 1933 gold recall, leaving only a fraction in collectible condition today.