1906 Pattern Double Eagle, Smithsonian Collection NGC GEM Proof Ultra Cameo

The obverse presents the head of Liberty facing to left wearing a Liberty cap with LIBERTY inscribed upon the band. Also around her head is an olive branch which is tied by a ribbon. Seven flat stars are at the rim in the left field; behind the head, in the right field, are found six more stars in equally low relief. The date 1906 is below the bust. 

The reverse displays the figure of Liberty standing, with her head turned to the right. Her right hand holds a sword and in her left she holds a long pole with a Liberty cap atop it. Behind the standing Liberty is a defiant eagle perched upon a rock with its wings spread widely. Behind Miss Liberty's head are rays and the motto IN GOD WE TRUST within the rays; below her feet are fasces. At the lower left rim is TWENTY, while at the lower right is found DOLLARS. Above the rays and around the rim is the legend UNITED STATES OF AMERICA.

Photo of Charles E. Barber’s famous 1906 Pattern $20 J-1773 Proof. It is housed in the National Numismatic collection at the Smithsonian. The current offering from AUCM is a replica of this unique gold pattern. Photo: PCGS Coinfacts.

Writes PCGS Coin Facts:

This outstanding design is probably Charles Barber's finest and was done at a time when Augustus Saint-Gaudens was already at work on new designs for the cent, eagle, and double eagle. The obverse bears a strong similarity to certain French coins and the head of Liberty is also reminiscent of the design that Barber's father and predecessor as Chief Engraver of the Mint, William Barber, used on the 1872 gold patterns.

Only one specimen was struck in gold and it is in the Mint Collection at the Smithsonian Institution.