1897 $20 Liberty Head Double Eagle PCGS MS62

Here’s a more reasonably priced example of the popular Liberty Head double eagle in the grade of MS62. Perhaps this Philadelphia Mint specimen could be added to your collection as a type coin. PCGS has graded 8,597 in MS62 with 3,592 finer. Collectors Universe gives this issue a price of $2,650.00 in MS62.

Chief Engraver James B. Longacre, who created the Liberty head design. Photo: Wikimedia Commons.

Upon the passing of Chief Engraver James B. Longacre, who crafted the beautiful Liberty head design for the double eagle and other gold coins, Mint Director Henry Linderman spoke to the workmen and officers at the U.S. Mint. He said, in part,

Mr. Longacre, my friends, was no ordinary man. His talents were of a high order, and would, with his industrious and frugal habits, have enabled him to achieve success and distinction in any professional or business career .… He reached by merit alone the honorable position of engraver of the National Mint, and so discharged its duties for a period of a quarter of a century as to command the continued confidence of the government and the public…. His official duties were performed with a faithfulness worthy of all commendation whilst his intercourse with his brother officers and subordinates was characterized by dignity, frankness, and urbanity, and the utmost kindness. After a long and useful life, and with faculties unimpaired, our friend passed peacefully and contented to his rest. Let us ever cherish his memory, and strive to emulate his virtues.