Design with Historic Roots
The images featured on the Gold Eagle Coin series have an interesting history. The obverse was originally designed by Augustus Saint-Gaudens. In 1907 he was the most famous artist in America and considered by many as the leading voice of the then popular Beaux Arts movement. The obverse of the series makes use of the popular Liberty design from the U.S. “Double Eagle” gold coin that circulated from 1907 until 1933. Liberty is depicted with her hair and gown flowing in the breeze. She is shown holding a torch overhead and an olive branch at her side.
The reverse image is an original one designed specifically for the series. Artist Miley Busiek (now working under the name Miley Tucker-Frost) created a design entitled the “Family of Eagles.” A male bald eagle shown as he is about to land in his nest. The nest is occupied by his mate and young.