2009 Ultra High Relief Double Eagle (w/Box & COA)

In the early 20th century, President Theodore Roosevelt embarked on a mission to revolutionize American coinage. Dissatisfied with the uninspired designs of circulating coins, Roosevelt sought to elevate U.S. currency to the artistic heights of ancient Greek and Roman masterpieces. This vision led to a collaboration with renowned sculptor Augustus Saint-Gaudens, resulting in the creation of what many consider the most beautiful coin in American history: the 1907 High Relief Double Eagle.

Saint-Gaudens, already battling cancer, worked tirelessly to bring Roosevelt's dream to life. The artist's design featured Lady Liberty striding forward, torch in hand, against a backdrop of radiant sunbeams. On the reverse, a majestic eagle soared above a rising sun, symbolizing America's ascendancy on the world stage. The level of detail and depth in Saint-Gaudens' original ultra-high relief design was unprecedented, pushing the boundaries of minting technology.

However, the coin's exquisite beauty came at a cost. The ultra-high relief proved impractical for mass production, requiring multiple strikes to fully bring up the design. Only a handful of these numismatic treasures were produced before the relief was lowered for practical circulation. The few original ultra-high relief specimens became instant classics, coveted by collectors and museums alike.

For over a century, numismatists and art enthusiasts alike dreamed of owning a piece that truly captured Saint-Gaudens' original vision. In 2009, the United States Mint finally made this dream a reality with the release of the Ultra High Relief Double Eagle Gold Coin. This modern masterpiece faithfully recreates the depth and detail of Saint-Gaudens' 1907 design, utilizing 21st-century minting technology to achieve what was once thought impossible.

The 2009 Ultra High Relief Double Eagle stands as a testament to both historical artistry and modern innovation. It bridges the gap between past and present, allowing collectors to own a piece of numismatic history reimagined for the modern era. This coin not only pays homage to Roosevelt's vision and Saint-Gaudens' genius but also showcases the technical prowess of contemporary minting processes.

For investors and collectors, the 2009 Ultra High Relief Double Eagle represents a unique opportunity. It combines the timeless appeal of classic American coin design with the purity and precision of modern bullion. Each coin contains one ounce of .9999 fine gold, ensuring its intrinsic value as a precious metal investment. Yet its limited mintage and historical significance elevate it far beyond mere bullion status, making it a true numismatic treasure.

Design Features

The obverse of the 2009 Ultra High Relief Double Eagle faithfully recreates Saint-Gaudens' iconic Liberty design. Lady Liberty strides confidently forward, her flowing gown and hair capturing a sense of movement. In her right hand, she holds aloft a torch, symbolizing enlightenment, while her left hand grasps an olive branch, representing peace. The Capitol building is visible in the distance, and the entire scene is framed by 50 stars, updated from the original 46 to reflect the current number of states. The word "LIBERTY" arches above, while the date, rendered in Roman numerals as "MMIX," sits near the bottom.

The reverse showcases a majestic eagle in flight, wings outstretched against a rising sun. This powerful image embodies the spirit of a young, ascendant America. The inscriptions "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" and "TWENTY DOLLARS" encircle the design, while "E PLURIBUS UNUM" appears on the edge of the coin. Unlike the 1907 original, this modern version includes "IN GOD WE TRUST" above the sun, added to comply with current coinage laws while maintaining the integrity of the overall design.

Product Highlights

• Metal Type: GOLD – Hedge
• Purity: 0.9999
• Weight: 1 oz
• Grade: BU – Brilliant Uncirculated
• Manufacturer: United States Mint
• Mint Mark: W – West Point (Not Shown)
• IRA Eligible: Yes
• Obverse: Lady Liberty striding forward with torch and olive branch, surrounded by 50 stars
• Reverse: Eagle in flight above rising sun, with national mottos and denomination

Investment Appeal

The 2009 Ultra High Relief Double Eagle offers a compelling proposition for both investors and collectors. Its one-ounce weight of .9999 fine gold provides a solid foundation of intrinsic value, making it an excellent vehicle for precious metal investment. The coin's status as legal tender, backed by the full faith and credit of the United States government, further enhances its appeal as a trusted store of wealth.

However, what truly sets this coin apart is its numismatic significance. The limited mintage and historical importance of the design create potential for appreciation beyond the spot price of gold. For collectors, it represents a chance to own a piece that embodies the pinnacle of American coin design, executed with modern precision.

The coin's brilliant uncirculated condition ensures that every detail of Saint-Gaudens' masterful design is preserved in stunning clarity. This combination of historical artistry, modern minting technology, and investment-grade gold makes the 2009 Ultra High Relief Double Eagle a standout addition to any portfolio or collection.

Furthermore, its IRA eligibility opens up additional investment opportunities, allowing individuals to include this remarkable coin in their retirement planning strategies. Whether acquired for its artistic beauty, historical significance, or investment potential, the 2009 Ultra High Relief Double Eagle stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of exceptional numismatic craftsmanship.