$20 Liberty Gold – Type 1 (1849–1866)

Early in 1849 Chief Engraver James B. Longacre designed the new gold dollar coin that was authorized by the Act of March 3. He then worked on the double eagle, finishing in early 1850. The unique 1849 pattern piece resides in the Smithsonian. The 1861 reverse design by Anthony C. Paquet was withdrawn soon after being struck. Very few pieces are known. There are three distinct types of the $20 Liberty double eagle design. This type, issued from 1849-1866, is missing the motto (IN GOD WE TRUST) on the reverse side.