1861-O $20 Liberty Gold Double Eagle NGC XF45

1861-O $20 Liberty Gold Double Eagle NGC XF45

NGC XF45 | Struck at the Southern Mint in a Pivotal Year in American History | NGC Population: 33 

• Year: 1861
• Weight: 33.44 grams (1.075 troy ounces)
• Purity: .900 fine gold (90% gold, 10% copper)
• Mint: New Orleans (O mint mark)
• Face Value: $20.00
• Grading Service: NGC
• Grade: XF45
• NGC Population: 33
• Special Notes: Struck the same year President Lincoln was inaugurated; issued by the New Orleans Mint during the early stages of the Civil War; extremely scarce compared to Philadelphia and San Francisco issues of the same year

This 1861-O $20 Liberty Gold Double Eagle, graded XF45 by NGC, is a true rarity from the New Orleans Mint, struck during a year of profound national significance. With a mintage of just 17,741 coins and only 33 examples certified by NGC at this grade, it is dramatically scarcer than its Philadelphia and San Francisco counterparts, which together minted millions of Double Eagles that same year.

The 1861-O is one of the most compelling issues in U.S. numismatics—not only for its rarity but also for the powerful story it tells. Struck during the final days of the New Orleans Mint, this coin was produced amid one of the most turbulent periods in American history. Coins bearing the 1861-O date may have been struck under three different authorities: the U.S. Government, the State of Louisiana after secession, and the Confederacy—making it an artifact of a nation literally divided.

The obverse features the iconic Lady Liberty wearing a coronet inscribed "LIBERTY," surrounded by thirteen stars representing the original colonies. The reverse showcases a majestic heraldic eagle clutching arrows and an olive branch, symbolizing strength and peace, with the denomination and the "O" mintmark below.

This $20 Liberty Gold Double Eagle serves as a tangible link to the early days of the Civil War and the complex history of the New Orleans Mint. Its production under three distinct authorities adds to its unique story and collectible appeal.

For collectors of rare gold coins or Civil War-era numismatics, this piece represents a once-in-a-generation opportunity to acquire a Southern gold rarity tied to the earliest days of the Civil War and Abraham Lincoln’s presidency. With so few certified examples available, this coin is a prized trophy and a true piece of American heritage—echoing the tensions, trials, and transformation of a nation on the brink of defining its future.

This is more than a coin—it’s living history in gold.