1873 $20 Liberty Head Gold Double Eagle – Open 3, NGC/PCGS AU58

The 1873 $20 Liberty Head Gold Double Eagle, Open 3 variety, stands as a fascinating piece of American numismatic history. Struck in the aftermath of the turbulent Civil War era, this coin captures the strength and resilience of the U.S. economy as it transitioned into the Gilded Age.

The “Open 3” refers to the style of the date on the obverse, where the loops of the numeral “3” are visibly open—a detail sought after by both collectors and specialists.

Certified AU58 by NGC or PCGS, this example flirts with Mint State, showing only the lightest touch of wear on the high points, while retaining much of its original luster and sharp detail. It’s a coin that offers the best of both worlds: the historical allure of circulated gold with the eye appeal of a near-Mint piece.

Why This Coin Is a Smart Buy

✅ Attractive Price Point Relative to Gold Content
While modern bullion coins like American Gold Eagles trade at premiums strictly tied to their melt value, pre-1933 $20 Liberty gold coins carry both intrinsic gold value and historical significance. The AU58 grade represents one of the most affordable entry points into collector-grade U.S. gold—often commanding only a modest premium over its melt value, especially when compared to higher Mint State coins.

✅ Large Gold Content
With nearly a full ounce of gold (.9675 oz), the $20 Liberty offers substantial intrinsic value, making it an appealing alternative for buyers who want precious metal exposure but also appreciate numismatic potential.

✅ Historic and Finite Supply
Unlike modern bullion, the supply of pre-1933 $20 Liberties is fixed, and examples in AU58 are especially appealing to both collectors and investors looking for scarcity, eye appeal, and affordability.

Summary

The 1873 $20 Open 3 Gold Liberty AU58 is a compelling option for anyone seeking vintage U.S. gold with historical charm at a price close to its bullion value. It’s an opportunity to own a piece of America’s past that offers far more than just gold content—it’s a legacy coin, positioned at the sweet spot of affordability and collectibility.