In late 1904, President Theodore Roosevelt lamented that America’s coinage had become aesthetically bland. The U.S. Mint was more concerned with function over form; they preferred designs that were reliable and easy to strike. Roosevelt took the bold step of commissioning Augustus Saint-Gaudens, a famous sculptor, to overhaul all four gold denominations.
During the redesign process, the artist and the President corresponded about how these new coins should look. Roosevelt mentioned that he admired the coins of Ancient Greece – and felt that the most attractive specimens were those struck in high relief. The raised design elements gave the coins a dramatic and unique appearance. Saint-Gaudens attempted to replicate this look for the new $20 Double Eagle.
One of Saint-Gaudens’ first prototypes was a double-thick Ultra High Relief coin. This exotic coin had the same gold content as a normal Double Eagle, but was 20% smaller in diameter (it measured 27mm versus 34 for a standard $20 piece). The narrower size allowed for a stunning “deep dish” appearance that is unlike any other United States coin. In many ways, this spectacular pattern coin is one of the most unusual and intriguing pieces in American numismatics.
1907 UHR Double Eagle Gold Coin
Just two of these double-thick Ultra High Reliefs were struck in 1907 – and both currently reside in the Smithsonian Institution. Experts believe they would sell for $5,000,000+ if ever offered for sale on the private market! Despite their extreme value and beauty, few numismatists knew of their existence until the past decade. Since they were impounded in a museum, they remained largely unknown to the hobby.
In terms of appearance, the 2009 reincarnation is virtually identical to the original 1907 coin. Other than the date, all design elements are the same. Although undistinguishable to the eye, the coin’s metallic composition is slightly different. The 1907 version contained 0.9675 ounces of .900 fine gold, whereas the 2009 Ultra High Reliefs weigh exactly one ounce and have a fineness of .9999 (24 karat). There is also one major difference: the price.
Luckily for collectors, the 2009 gold Ultra High Relief costs millions less than the 1907 version. In fact, we just made a group of these available at the bargain level of $1,699 per coin. We believe this is the best price in the marketplace; if you see these for less, we want to hear about it! Other major dealers are quoting $1,800 to $2,000 per coin – and we remember these trading for well over $2,000 each in recent years. However, your cost is now just $1,699 per coin with free shipping!
Each coin is in superb Gem Uncirculated condition with immaculate surfaces and outstanding eye appeal. Since these were issued by the U.S. Mint in protective plastic capsules, they remain in fantastic condition for today’s collectors. Our 2009 Ultra High Reliefs come with their original government-issued wooden box, certificate of authenticity, and hardcover companion book. Not only is the coin itself highly attractive, but so too is the associated packaging.
Owing to this coin’s popularity, it can be difficult to locate these in the marketplace. It’s even harder to find them at reasonable prices. Be sure to take advantage of our special pricing, which will remain in effect until 1/6 or while our inventory remains. We predict that these 2009 Ultra High Reliefs will be spoken for quickly; you may be disappointed if you wait. This is an outstanding opportunity to own one of America’s most beautiful modern coins – at the lowest price in years!
