The 1915 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle capped the U.S. Mint’s production of proof $20 gold coins before an extended hiatus, with just 50 pieces struck. This final-year proof issue from the acclaimed Saint-Gaudens series (1907–1933) is notable for its distinctive matte or “sandblast” finish and historical significance as the last official proof gold coin of its era. It is widely regarded as a cornerstone trophy among 20th-century U.S. numismatics.
Obverse: Features Liberty striding forward, torch in her right hand and olive branch in her left, with the U.S. Capitol in the background and sun rays radiating behind. The edge bears the inscription “E PLURIBUS UNUM.”
Reverse: Depicts a majestic eagle in flight above a rising sun, with “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA”, “TWENTY DOLLARS”, and the motto “IN GOD WE TRUST.”
Graded NGC PR67, this example is the single finest known 1915 matte proof double eagle at either NGC or PCGS (Pop 1/0). The 1915 issue also features the coarsest matte texture in the series and a darker, more granular tone compared to earlier proofs.
Most survivors grade PR64 or lower, making this Simpson-pedigreed gem both a condition rarity and historical outlier. Only about 30–35 total examples survive, with fewer than 10 considered gem quality.
