The 1907 Ultra High Relief Double Eagle, an extraordinary piece of numismatic history, is renowned for its aesthetic appeal and rarity. Often regarded as one of the most beautiful coins ever produced by the United States Mint, it features an intricate design by the famous sculptor Augustus Saint-Gaudens.
This coin’s unique characteristics and low mintage make it a coveted item among collectors, contributing to its significant market value, which can reach nearly $3 million.
Crafted during a period of remarkable transformation in American coinage, the 1907 Double Eagle is highly prized for its ultra-high relief—a level of detail rarely seen on coins before or since. Its distinct features and limited availability make it a true treasure in the world of rare coins.
1907 Ultra High Relief Double Eagle
The 1907 Ultra High Relief Double Eagle stands out in American numismatic history as a stunning example of artistry and craftsmanship. Created to symbolize the country’s growing prominence, the coin features Lady Liberty striding forward on the obverse and a majestic eagle in flight on the reverse.
The relief on this coin is exceptionally high, providing an almost sculptural look that adds to its aesthetic allure. Minted in limited quantities, this coin’s production was halted due to the complexities in striking such a high-relief design, enhancing its rarity and value.
Unique Design and Features
This coin’s design is attributed to Augustus Saint-Gaudens, whose vision for American currency aimed to elevate coinage to an art form. Unlike most coins, the 1907 Double Eagle has an ultra-high relief that required multiple strikes to bring out the desired depth.
The intricate details of Lady Liberty’s gown, her flowing hair, and the eagle’s feathers are exquisitely captured. The combination of its artistic design and technical difficulty in production gives this coin a unique appeal.
As a result, it stands out as not only a currency piece but also a historical artifact symbolizing American pride.
Production and Challenges
The production of the 1907 Ultra High Relief Double Eagle was met with considerable challenges. Due to its high-relief design, the coin required up to nine strikes to achieve the depth and clarity Saint-Gaudens intended, making it extremely labor-intensive.
This process led to production issues and concerns regarding the coin’s practicality for widespread circulation. Eventually, only a limited number were struck before the design was modified to a more conventional relief. This limited run increased its exclusivity and is a significant factor behind its current high value.
Market Value and Rarity
The market value of the 1907 Ultra High Relief Double Eagle reflects its rarity and cultural significance. With only around two dozen of these coins known to exist today, they have become immensely valuable, often fetching prices close to $3 million at auctions.
The high demand among collectors, combined with the limited availability, contributes to this substantial valuation. Moreover, the coin’s historical background as part of a transformative era in American coinage adds an extra layer of intrigue for collectors and investors alike.
| Coin Name | Year of Issue | Designer | Relief Type | Approximate Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1907 Ultra High Relief Double Eagle | 1907 | Augustus Saint-Gaudens | Ultra High Relief | $3,000,000 |
| 1933 Double Eagle | 1933 | Augustus Saint-Gaudens | Regular Relief | $18,900,000 |
| 1794 Flowing Hair Silver Dollar | 1794 | Robert Scot | High Relief | $10,000,000 |
| 1804 Draped Bust Dollar | 1804 | Robert Scot | Regular Relief | $4,140,000 |
| 1913 Liberty Head Nickel | 1913 | Charles E. Barber | Regular Relief | $5,000,000 |
The 1907 Ultra High Relief Double Eagle remains one of the most sought-after coins for collectors and enthusiasts. This coin represents a blend of artistry, history, and exclusivity that few other coins can match.
Its significance in the world of numismatics is unmatched, with its intricate design and unique production challenges symbolizing an era of elegance and ambition in U.S. coinage.
Today, the Ultra High Relief Double Eagle serves as a testament to the vision of Augustus Saint-Gaudens and a period of transformation in American currency.
