1879 Liberty Head Double Eagle

1879 Liberty Head double eagles are among considerably common, as 1.4 million pieces were originally struck, and a decent share survive to this day. 1879 marked the first time that four mints would strike $20 gold coins during the same year, with Philadelphia, Carson City, New Orleans, and San Francisco contributing to the production of Liberty Head double eagles. This would also mark the first time since 1861 that the New Orleans mint struck double eagles.

Here is a look at the mintages and values of 1879 double eagle gold coins:

• 1879, 207,600; $2,885

• 1879-CC, 10,708; $6,500

• 1879-O, 2,325; $30,000

• 1879-S, 1,223,800; $2,885

• 1879 proof, 30; $250,000

*Values are for coins in a grade of Extremely Fine 40 unless otherwise specified.

1879 $20 double eagle gold coins weigh 33.44 grams, contain 0.9613 ounces of gold, and measure 34 millimeters wide. The double eagle’s heavy weight and large size help ensure their popularity among both numismatists and bullion investors alike. James B. Longacre, who served as the Chief Engraver of the United States Mint, originally designed the Liberty Head double eagle in 1849. He also designed several other popular coins, including the Indian Head penny and 2 Cent coin.