2017-W American Liberty High Relief Gold Coin NGC PF70

In 2017, as the United States Mint celebrated its 225th anniversary, a groundbreaking coin emerged that would challenge traditional notions of American numismatic art. The 2017-W American Liberty High Relief Gold Coin represented a bold reimagining of Lady Liberty, one that sought to reflect the diverse tapestry of modern America. This coin wasn't just a commemoration; it was a statement about the evolving face of freedom in the United States.

For over two centuries, Lady Liberty had been a constant presence on American coinage, typically portrayed with European features. However, the 2017 design broke new ground by depicting Liberty as a young African American woman. Her crown of stars, reminiscent of the Statue of Freedom atop the U.S. Capitol dome, symbolized the radiance of liberty illuminating the nation. This artistic choice wasn't without controversy, but it sparked important conversations about representation and the multifaceted nature of American identity.

The coin's high relief striking technique harkens back to the early 20th century when President Theodore Roosevelt sought to elevate American coinage to an art form. He commissioned renowned sculptor Augustus Saint-Gaudens to create coins of exceptional beauty and depth. While technological limitations of the time prevented the full realization of their vision, the 2017 American Liberty coin finally brought that dream to fruition, combining modern minting capabilities with classical artistic aspirations.

Beyond its artistic merits, this coin carries profound symbolic weight. The portrayal of Liberty as an African American woman acknowledges the complex history of freedom in the United States, from the struggles of the Civil Rights movement to the ongoing pursuit of equality. It serves as a reminder that liberty is not a static concept, but one that continually evolves and expands to embrace all Americans.

The timing of this coin's release, coinciding with the U.S. Mint's 225th anniversary, adds another layer of significance. It represents a bridge between America's numismatic past and its future, honoring tradition while boldly stepping into new artistic territory. This juxtaposition of old and new, traditional and modern, makes the 2017 American Liberty High Relief Gold Coin a pivotal piece in the narrative of American coinage.

For collectors and historians alike, this coin offers a tangible connection to a pivotal moment in American numismatic history. It stands as a testament to the power of art to reflect societal change and challenge long-held conventions. The 2017 American Liberty coin isn't just a piece of precious metal; it's a cultural artifact that encapsulates the spirit of a nation in transition, forever preserving this moment of reflection and progress in gleaming gold.

Design Features

The obverse of the 2017-W American Liberty High Relief Gold Coin showcases a striking profile of Liberty as a young African American woman. Her gaze is fixed forward, symbolizing a focus on the future, while her crown of stars pays homage to classical depictions of Liberty. The intricate details of her hair, flowing freely, represent the unbounded nature of freedom. The inscriptions "LIBERTY," "2017," and "IN GOD WE TRUST" encircle the central image, grounding the modern design in American numismatic tradition.

On the reverse, a powerful American bald eagle in flight dominates the field. Its wings are spread wide, conveying a sense of strength and freedom that echoes the obverse's theme. The eagle clutches an olive branch in its talons, a classic symbol of peace that has adorned American coinage for centuries. The inscriptions "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA," "E PLURIBUS UNUM," "1 OZ.," ".9999 FINE GOLD," and the denomination "$100" complete the design, affirming the coin's status as legal tender and its exceptional purity.

The high relief striking of both obverse and reverse designs adds a remarkable depth and dimensionality to the coin. This technique allows for an almost sculptural quality, with the images seeming to rise from the surface of the coin. The contrast between the frosted design elements and the mirror-like fields enhances the visual impact, creating a stunning interplay of light and shadow that brings the designs to life.

Product Highlights

• Metal Type: Gold
• IRA Eligible: No
• Obverse: Profile of Liberty as a young African American woman wearing a crown of stars
• Reverse: American bald eagle in flight, clutching an olive branch

Investment Appeal

The 2017-W American Liberty High Relief Gold Coin presents a compelling investment opportunity for both numismatists and precious metal enthusiasts. Its status as a limited edition release from the U.S. Mint ensures its scarcity, a key factor in long-term value appreciation. The coin's exceptional purity of .9999 fine gold makes it an attractive option for those looking to diversify their precious metal holdings with a product that combines intrinsic value with numismatic appeal.

The groundbreaking design of this coin sets it apart in the world of numismatics. Its portrayal of Liberty as an African American woman represents a significant departure from traditional iconography, potentially making it a pivotal piece in the evolution of American coinage. This historical significance could drive increased demand among collectors over time, potentially enhancing its premium over spot gold prices.

Moreover, the high relief striking and proof finish of this coin showcase the pinnacle of modern minting technology. This level of craftsmanship appeals to collectors who value artistic merit alongside precious metal content, potentially broadening the coin's market appeal and liquidity.

For investors, the coin offers a unique combination of gold bullion investment and numismatic collectibility. While its value is underpinned by its gold content, the limited mintage and historical significance provide additional avenues for potential appreciation. This dual nature makes it an intriguing option for those looking to balance the stability of precious metals with the growth potential of rare coins.

In essence, the 2017-W American Liberty High Relief Gold Coin isn't just a purchase; it's an investment in a piece of American numismatic history. Its blend of artistic innovation, cultural significance, and precious metal content positions it as a standout option for those seeking to add depth and diversity to their investment portfolio or coin collection.