2009 Ultra High Relief Double Eagle NGC MS70 PL

A Numismatic Masterpiece Reborn

In the annals of American coinage, few pieces have captured the imagination quite like the Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle. Born from the vision of President Theodore Roosevelt and the artistic genius of Augustus Saint-Gaudens, this coin represents the pinnacle of American numismatic artistry. The 2009 Ultra High Relief Double Eagle NGC MS70 PL is not merely a coin; it's a testament to the enduring legacy of this iconic design and the technological prowess of modern minting.

The story of this coin begins in the early 20th century when President Roosevelt, dissatisfied with the artistic merit of American coinage, embarked on a mission to elevate these everyday objects to works of art. He found a kindred spirit in Augustus Saint-Gaudens, one of America's most renowned sculptors. Together, they conceived a coin that would rival the beauty of ancient Greek and Roman currency.

Saint-Gaudens' original 1907 design was a marvel of numismatic art, featuring Lady Liberty striding forward, torch in hand, against a rising sun. However, the ultra-high relief of the original proved impractical for mass production, and only a handful were ever struck. For over a century, this design remained a tantalizing "what if" in American coinage history.

Fast forward to 2009, and the United States Mint finally realized Saint-Gaudens' vision in full. Utilizing cutting-edge minting technology, they produced the Ultra High Relief Double Eagle, a coin that faithfully recreates the breathtaking depth and detail of Saint-Gaudens' original concept. This modern masterpiece stands as a bridge between past and present, honoring the artistic legacy of American coinage while showcasing the capabilities of contemporary minting processes.

The 2009 Ultra High Relief Double Eagle NGC MS70 PL represents the pinnacle of this achievement. Graded MS70 PL (Prooflike) by the Numismatic Guaranty Corporation, this specimen is quite literally perfect, with no discernible flaws even under magnification. The prooflike designation further attests to its exceptional strike quality, featuring mirror-like fields that contrast beautifully with the frosted design elements.

For collectors and investors alike, this coin offers a unique opportunity to own a piece of numismatic history. It's not just a coin; it's a tangible connection to the golden age of American coin design, a showcase of modern minting excellence, and a potential store of value all rolled into one exquisite package.

Exquisite Design Features

The obverse of the 2009 Ultra High Relief Double Eagle is a faithful recreation of Saint-Gaudens' iconic Liberty design. Lady Liberty strides confidently forward, her flowing gown and hair evoking the classical beauty of ancient Greek sculptures. In her right hand, she holds aloft a torch, symbolizing enlightenment, while her left hand cradles an olive branch, representing peace. The Capitol building is visible in the distance, grounding the design in American symbolism. Surrounding Liberty are 50 stars, updated from the original 46 to reflect the current number of states. The date, rendered in Roman numerals as "MMIX," adds a touch of classical elegance.

The reverse features a majestic eagle in flight, wings spread wide as it soars before a rising sun. This powerful image of freedom and aspiration is framed by the words "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" and the denomination "TWENTY DOLLARS." The motto "IN GOD WE TRUST," absent from the 1907 original due to President Roosevelt's initial objections, now finds its place on this modern interpretation. The coin's edge bears the additional motto "E PLURIBUS UNUM" and the designation of ".9999 FINE GOLD," speaking to its exceptional purity.

The ultra-high relief of the coin brings these designs to life in a way that two-dimensional images simply cannot capture. The depth and dimensionality create a play of light and shadow that makes Liberty and the eagle appear almost to move as the coin is tilted. This effect, combined with the prooflike finish of this particular specimen, results in a visual spectacle that must be seen to be truly appreciated.

Product Highlights

• Metal Type: Gold
• IRA Eligible: No
• Obverse: Ultra High Relief depiction of Liberty striding forward, torch and olive branch in hand, surrounded by 50 stars.
• Reverse: Eagle in flight before a rising sun, with inscriptions "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA," "TWENTY DOLLARS," and "IN GOD WE TRUST."

A Golden Opportunity for Collectors and Investors

The 2009 Ultra High Relief Double Eagle NGC MS70 PL stands at the intersection of historical significance, artistic beauty, and numismatic perfection. For collectors, it represents a chance to own a flawless example of one of the most celebrated coin designs in American history, realized in its full, intended glory. The MS70 grade ensures that this coin is in absolutely perfect condition, making it a true prize for the discerning numismatist.

Investors, too, will find much to appreciate in this exceptional piece. Gold has long been valued as a hedge against economic uncertainty, and this coin's .9999 fine gold content provides that security in a form that transcends mere bullion. The limited mintage of the 2009 Ultra High Relief Double Eagle, combined with the perfect MS70 grade and prooflike designation, suggests strong potential for appreciation over time.

Moreover, the coin's historical and artistic significance adds an intangible value that goes beyond its precious metal content. It's a piece of American cultural heritage, a snapshot of both early 20th-century artistic ambition and early 21st-century technological achievement. This combination of factors makes the 2009 Ultra High Relief Double Eagle NGC MS70 PL not just a purchase, but an investment in beauty, history, and the enduring allure of exceptional coinage.