The 1927-D Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle, a coin of exceptional rarity and historical significance, recently commanded a price approaching $2 million at auction.
This remarkable sale underscores the enduring allure of rare coins among collectors and investors.
A Glimpse into the 1927-D Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle
Designed by the renowned sculptor Augustus Saint-Gaudens, the Double Eagle series is celebrated for its artistic merit.
The 1927-D variant, minted at the Denver Mint, stands out due to its limited availability and the historical context surrounding its production.
Key Specifications of the 1927-D Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Year | 1927 |
| Mint Mark | D (Denver) |
| Mintage | 180,000 coins |
| Composition | 90% gold, 10% copper |
| Weight | 33.436 grams |
| Diameter | 34 mm |
| Edge | Lettered: “E PLURIBUS UNUM” |
| Designer | Augustus Saint-Gaudens |
Factors Contributing to Its Rarity
Several elements contribute to the scarcity and high value of the 1927-D Double Eagle:
- Limited Release and Circulation: Although 180,000 coins were minted, very few entered public circulation. Most remained in vaults, untouched by the general populace.
- Gold Recall and Melting: The Gold Recall Act of 1933 led to the melting of numerous gold coins, including the 1927-D Double Eagles. This action drastically reduced the number of surviving specimens.
- Surviving Specimens: Estimates suggest that only 14 to 15 examples of the 1927-D Double Eagle exist today, amplifying its rarity and desirability among collectors.
The Record-Breaking Sale
In January 2025, a 1927-D Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle graded MS65+ CAC was sold for $3.84 million at GreatCollections, highlighting the coin’s exceptional condition and the premium it commands in the numismatic market.
Notable Auction Sales of the 1927-D Double Eagle:
| Date | Grade | Price Realized | Auction House |
|---|---|---|---|
| January 2025 | MS65+ CAC | $3,840,000 | GreatCollections |
| January 2020 | MS65+ | $2,160,000 | Heritage Auctions |
| January 2006 | MS66 | $1,900,000+ | North American Certified Trading |
| August 2005 | MS67 | $1,897,500 | Heritage Auctions |
Determinants of Coin Value
The substantial value of the 1927-D Double Eagle is influenced by:
- Rarity: Limited surviving examples elevate its market worth.
- Condition/Grade: Coins in superior condition, such as those graded MS65 or higher, attract premium prices.
- Historical Significance: Coins with compelling histories, like those affected by the 1933 gold recall, are highly sought after.
- Market Demand: Intense interest from collectors and investors can drive auction prices to remarkable heights.
Other Remarkable Sales in the Series
The 1927-D is not the sole Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle to achieve impressive auction results:
- 1933 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle: Sold for $18.9 million in 2021, setting a record for the most expensive coin ever sold.
- 1921 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle: Another rare issue, with specimens fetching significant sums at auction.
- 1907 Ultra High Relief Double Eagle: A unique variation, highly prized among numismatists.
The recent sale of the 1927-D Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle for nearly $2 million underscores the enduring fascination with rare coins.
Its blend of artistic design, historical context, and extreme scarcity ensures its place as a centerpiece in any esteemed collection.
As the numismatic community continues to thrive, such treasures will undoubtedly remain at the forefront of collectors’ pursuits.
FAQs
What makes the 1927-D Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle so valuable?
Its limited mintage, combined with the mass melting during the 1933 gold recall, results in very few surviving specimens, enhancing its rarity and value.
How many 1927-D Double Eagles are known to exist today?
Approximately 14 to 15 examples are believed to have survived to the present day.
Where can one view a 1927-D Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle?
Institutions like the Smithsonian Institution and the Museum of Connecticut History house specimens of this rare coin for public viewing.