The 1857-O Coronet Head Gold $20 Double Eagle is a significant coin in American numismatics, struck at the New Orleans Mint (O mint mark) during the mid-19th century. Here's some information about it:
Design: The Coronet Head Gold $20 Double Eagle features a left-facing bust of Liberty wearing a coronet inscribed with the word "LIBERTY." The obverse (front) of the coin also includes thirteen stars representing the original colonies and the year of mintage.
The reverse (back) features a heraldic eagle with outstretched wings, holding an olive branch and arrows, with a shield on its breast. Above the eagle is a ribbon with the motto "IN GOD WE TRUST," and the denomination "TWENTY D." is inscribed below.
Composition: The 1857-O Coronet Head Gold $20 Double Eagle is composed of .900 fine gold (90% gold and 10% copper), with a weight of approximately 33.44 grams and a diameter of 34 millimeters.
Mintage: The mintage of the 1857-O Coronet Head Gold $20 Double Eagle was relatively low, with a total of approximately 30,000 coins struck at the New Orleans Mint.
Coins minted at the New Orleans Mint are highly sought after by collectors due to their association with the Old South and limited production numbers.
Historical Context: The Coronet Head series of gold coins, including the $20 Double Eagle, was minted during a period of economic expansion and westward expansion in the United States.
Well-preserved examples with attractive eye appeal command significant premiums at auctions and numismatic events, making them prized additions to any collection of early American coinage.