Creating the Iconic Saint-Gaudens Double Eagles

Embark on a numismatic journey with "Creating the Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle," my episode that uncovers the fascinating history behind one of America's most beautiful gold coins. We delve into the captivating story of how President Theodore Roosevelt, determined to elevate U.S. coinage to the level of ancient Greek art, commissioned the renowned sculptor Augustus Saint-Gaudens. This video explores the collaborative efforts with figures like Frank Leach and others at the U.S. Mint, highlighting the challenges and triumphs that led to the creation of the iconic double eagle gold coin. Discover the intricate details, the unique design, and the historical significance that make the Saint-Gaudens double eagle a cornerstone for rare coin collectors and a treasure in American numismatics. Learn about the rarest versions, from the ultra high relief 1907 to the legendary 1933 double eagle, and understand why this valuable gold coin continues to be a holy grail for collectors worldwide. 

You won't believe the amazing creators story behind the Saint-Gaudens double eagle gold coins. 

The driving force behind redesigning America's coinage was called many names... 

"The Bull Moose"

"The Trust Buster"

"The Lion"

"TR"

"The Colonel"

"Telescope Teddy"

or even just plain old, "Teddy" 

President Theodore Roosevelt wanted America to have coinage as beautiful as the ancient Greeks. And if it wasn't for this "human dynamo" of a President, we would have never seen the epic Saint-Gaudens double eagle gold coins. 

I hope you enjoy this story, I had an absolute blast learning all about this incredible epic coin. 

Summary

This conversation delves into the fascinating history of the St. Gaudens double eagle gold coin, exploring President Theodore Roosevelt's vision for redesigning American coinage, the artistic contributions of Augustus Saint-Gaudens, and the challenges faced during the design process. It highlights the controversies surrounding high relief designs, public reception, and the legacy of these coins in American history.

Takeaways

• President Roosevelt aimed to redesign American coinage for artistic value.
• Augustus Saint-Gaudens was chosen for his artistic prowess in coin design.
• The process of coin design faced bureaucratic challenges at the US Mint.
• High relief designs were initially impractical for mass production.
• The St. Gaudens double eagle became a symbol of American prosperity.
• Public reception of the new coins was mixed, with some criticism.
• The omission of 'In God We Trust' sparked public outcry and debate.
• Roosevelt defended the omission, citing a clerical error in the coinage act.
• The legacy of the double eagle continues to influence coin design today.
• The story of the double eagle reflects broader themes in American history.

Chapters

00:00 The Roosevelt Coinage Initiative
10:15 The Role of Augustus Saint-Gaudens
20:36 Challenges in Coin Design
30:58 The High Relief Controversy
40:43 The Legacy of the Double Eagle
51:01 Public Reception and Criticism
01:01:59 Final Thoughts on Coinage and History

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