

Considered the most iconic coin design in American history, Augustus Saint-Gaudens’ Gold Double Eagle set the standard for beauty and craftsmanship in U.S. coinage. First envisioned in 1907 at the request of President Theodore Roosevelt, Saint-Gaudens’ design was originally intended to be struck in high relief—something the Mint couldn’t achieve at the time.
In 2009, the U.S. Mint brought his original vision to life, producing a limited, one-year-only striking of the Ultra High Relief Gold Double Eagle.
This coin isn’t just a stunning collectible—it’s a tangible link to America’s golden age and a sought-after piece for serious gold investors.
Craftsmanship:
The 2009 Ultra High Relief Gold Double Eagle is a triumph of numismatic artistry and modern minting capability. Struck in 99.99% pure gold (24-karat), this one-year-only issue fulfilled the original vision of legendary sculptor Augustus Saint-Gaudens, whose 1907 design was commissioned by President Theodore Roosevelt to elevate America’s coinage to a work of art. While the technology of the early 20th century could not achieve the desired ultra-high relief, the U.S. Mint in 2009 brought this century-old dream to life with extraordinary precision and depth of detail.
Design Details:
The obverse features Saint-Gaudens’ iconic image of Lady Liberty striding confidently forward from the U.S. Capitol, torch raised in one hand and olive branch in the other, symbolizing enlightenment and peace. The design is encircled by 50 stars, representing each state, with the word “LIBERTY” inscribed above and the year “MMIX” in Roman numerals to mark its 2009 issue. The reverse showcases a majestic American bald eagle in full flight over a radiant rising sun, its powerful wings spread wide in a display of strength and freedom. Surrounding inscriptions include “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA,” “IN GOD WE TRUST,” and the $20 denomination. The coin’s ultra-high-relief strike on a 4 mm thick planchet gives each element a sculptural quality rarely seen in modern coinage.
Investment & Legacy:
The 2009 Ultra High Relief Gold Double Eagle is far more than a commemorative release — it is the definitive realization of one of America’s most celebrated coin designs. Containing one troy ounce of .9999 fine gold and backed by the U.S. government, it offers both intrinsic value and enduring historical significance. Housed in its original U.S. Mint mahogany presentation box with Certificate of Authenticity, this masterpiece stands as a timeless store of wealth, a tribute to American artistry, and a must-have for serious collectors and strategic gold investors.
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