Unraveling the Mystery: Why is it Called a "Double Eagle"?
The term "double eagle" is a phrase that has been used in golf and coin collecting for centuries, but its origins and meaning are not as widely known. This article aims to delve into the history and etymology of this term, providing a comprehensive and engaging exploration of why it is called a "double eagle" in both golf and numismatics.
Golf: The Sport's "Double Eagle"
In the world of golf, a "double eagle" is a rare feat where a player hits the ball into the hole with two strokes less than the par for that hole. This extraordinary achievement is also known as an "albatross" or a "double eagle twosome," but the most common term is "double eagle."
Etymology of the Golf "Double Eagle"
The term "double eagle" in golf is believed to have originated in the late 19th century, with the first recorded use in 1884. The exact reason for its naming is unclear, but there are a few theories:
- Bird Metaphor: One theory suggests that the term is a metaphor for the bird known as the "eagle," which is known for its soaring flight. A "double eagle" would then represent an exceptional flight, or in this case, an exceptional shot.
- French Influence: Another theory proposes that the term originated from the French word "aigle," which means "eagle." The French had a significant influence on early golf, and it's possible that the term was brought over from France.
Numismatics: The Coin's "Double Eagle"
In the world of coin collecting, a "double eagle" refers to a coin with a denomination of $20. The most famous example is the U.S. $20 gold piece, which was minted from 1907 to 1933. The term "double eagle" is also used for similar coins from other countries, such as the British £5 piece.
History of the Numismatic "Double Eagle"
The term "double eagle" in coin collecting dates back to the 18th century, with the first known use in 1795. The name likely comes from the fact that these coins were worth two times the value of an "eagle," which was a coin worth $10. The term "double eagle" was officially adopted by the U.S. Mint in 1849.
Design and Symbolism of the U.S. Double Eagle
The U.S. double eagle is known for its intricate and symbolic design. The obverse features a portrait of Lady Liberty, while the reverse depicts an eagle with outstretched wings. The eagle is a symbol of strength and freedom, and its depiction on the double eagle is a reflection of these values.
Conclusion: The Enduring Legacy of the "Double Eagle"
The term "double eagle" has a rich history and a unique meaning in both golf and coin collecting. Whether it's a rare feat on the golf course or a valuable coin in a collector's hands, the "double eagle" continues to captivate and inspire. Understanding the origins and meaning of this term provides a deeper appreciation for these two distinct yet interconnected worlds.
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Feb 24, 2025 ... For those of you who don't appreciate double eagle, it's largely an American term, which originated from Gene Sarazen's 1935 shot at Augusta ...
Apr 9, 2013 ... Where the term "double eagle" came from is one of golf's mysteries, and it simply doesn't add up. A birdie is universally known as a score of 1- ...
Mar 24, 2024 ... Garry Howard my husband had a double eagle (a 2 on a par 5). And that is what it was called, not an albatross tho I guess they are one and the ...
Jul 13, 2024 ... The albatross golf term carries the same meaning as a double eagle—a score of three-under-par on a single hole. The name "albatross" is derived ...
... double eagle. What is the origin of the word 'bogey?' top. The term 'bogey' comes from a song that was popular in the British Isles in the early 1890s, called ...
The term used most often by American golfers is double eagle. These two terms are interchangeable as they mean the same thing. The term albatross originated in ...
Since the $20 gold piece had twice the value of the eagle, these coins were designated "double eagles". Before, the most valuable American coin was the $10 gold ...
When a hole is made in 3 under par, it might be called a double eagle." Note the magazine stated what the birdie and eagle are called, while the use of double ...
Dec 13, 2024 ... An albatross, also known as a double eagle, is golf's rarest scoring feat where you sink a shot three strokes under par.
Jan 13, 2016 ... It is actually a British term first used around 1929. In America we generally refer to it as a double eagle, which makes much more sense because ...
Ab Smith said his group used the phrase 'double eagle' for three under (see Birdie above), which is still the term most Americans and the name for their Double ...
Jan 15, 2014 ... “I didn't know what a double eagle was until I came to the United States. I might have read the term. That's weird. I guess they can't think of ...
Mar 10, 2023 ... This “double eagle” synonym is simply a continuation of the aviary theme of good scores. The albatross is rare, as is a three under par.
Mar 28, 2026 ... For the hard headed folks…do you understand what “double” means? What's the logic? Why don't you call an eagle a “double birdie?” 1. You ...
Jun 12, 2025 ... “I guess they can't think of a word for something better than eagle so they call it a double eagle. But it's not really a double eagle. It's ...
Sep 4, 2020 ... Albatross is the term for three-under-par and is a continuation of the birdie and eagle theme. 'Double or triple Bogey': To the beginner they're ...
Apr 5, 2024 ... Albatross for Robby Shelton at the Texas Children's Houston Open. #Shorts SUBSCRIBE to PGA TOUR now: http://pgat.us/vBxcZSh Welcome to the ...
May 1, 2026 ... The meaning of DOUBLE EAGLE is a golf score of three strokes less than par on a hole —called also albatross. How to use double eagle in a ...
May 24, 2019 ... In theory, a triple eagle—4-under on a hole—is possible: It would be a hole-in-one on a par-5 (also called a "condor") or a score of two on a ...
Jun 16, 2023 ... Eagles are most commonly achieved by reaching a par-5 green in 2 strokes, then completing the hole with one putt. Albatross / Double Eagle - An ...
