The 1907 Ultra High Relief Gold Double Eagle, designed by renowned sculptor Augustus Saint-Gaudens, stands as a pinnacle of numismatic artistry. While some reports have speculated its value reaching up to $8 million, the most recent verified sale occurred in 2021, fetching $4.1 million.
Historical Context
In the early 20th century, President Theodore Roosevelt sought to rejuvenate American coinage, enlisting Saint-Gaudens to create designs that mirrored the nation’s grandeur. The result was the Ultra High Relief Double Eagle, a coin that required multiple strikes to achieve its intricate detail, making mass production impractical.
Design and Specifications
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Obverse Design | Lady Liberty striding forward, torch in right hand, olive branch in left, with the U.S. Capitol in the background |
| Reverse Design | A majestic eagle in flight above the rising sun |
| Composition | 90% gold, 10% copper |
| Weight | 33.431 grams (1.075 troy ounces) |
| Diameter | 34 mm |
| Edge | Lettered with “E PLURIBUS UNUM” |
| Designer | Augustus Saint-Gaudens |
Rarity and Production
The Ultra High Relief Double Eagle was produced in extremely limited quantities due to the challenges in striking its detailed design. Records indicate that approximately 20 to 24 specimens were minted, making it one of the rarest U.S. coins.
Auction Records
The value of the 1907 Ultra High Relief Double Eagle has appreciated significantly over the years:
- 2015: A specimen sold for $2.1 million.
- 2019: Another example fetched $3.6 million.
- 2021: The most recent sale recorded a price of $4.1 million.
These figures underscore the coin’s escalating value among collectors and investors.
Factors Influencing Value
Several elements contribute to the substantial worth of this coin:
- Historical Significance: As a product of Roosevelt’s coinage renaissance, it holds immense historical value.
- Artistic Merit: Saint-Gaudens’ design is celebrated for its beauty and complexity.
- Rarity: With fewer than two dozen known specimens, its scarcity is unparalleled.
- Condition: Coins in superior condition command higher prices.
Identifying Authentic Specimens
Due to its value, the 1907 Ultra High Relief Double Eagle has been subject to counterfeiting. To ensure authenticity:
- Certification: Seek verification from reputable grading services like PCGS or NGC.
- Provenance: Verify the coin’s ownership history.
- Physical Examination: Consult with numismatic experts familiar with early 20th-century U.S. coinage.
Conclusion
The 1907 Ultra High Relief Gold Double Eagle is more than a coin; it’s a masterpiece of American art and history. Its rarity and significance make it a prized possession for collectors, with values now reaching $4.1 million.
FAQs
How many 1907 Ultra High Relief Double Eagles exist?
Approximately 20 to 24 specimens are known.
Why are these coins so valuable?
Their limited mintage, historical context, and artistic merit contribute to their high value.
How can I verify the authenticity of such a coin?
Obtain certification from reputable grading services and consult numismatic experts.
Have there been any recent sales of this coin?
Yes, a specimen sold in 2021 for $4.1 million.
Are there replicas or restrikes of this coin?
Yes, modern reproductions exist but are less valuable than the originals.
