Numismatic

2009 Ultra High Relief Double Eagle MS-69 NGC

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In 2009, a remarkable numismatic vision was realized when the West Point Mint produced an extraordinary gold coin struck on a thick, four-millimeter planchet. This modern release features an ultra high relief format, bringing a dramatic, sculptural depth to a classic American design. Crafted from one troy ounce of 0.9999 fine gold, this particular piece has been certified in exceptional Mint State 69 condition. The origins of this striking design date back to December 1906, when the initial concepts were presented to President Theodore Roosevelt. To explore the feasibility of such deep, dimensional details, mint engraver Charles Barber alongside Henri Weil developed hubs for experimental trial pieces. Struck in 1907, those original 27-millimeter test coins were used to evaluate how many strikes from the coining press were required to fully bring up the high-relief imagery while maintaining the standard gold content of a traditional twenty-dollar coin. The obverse of this 2009 issue showcases a powerful depiction of Lady Liberty walking forward, illuminated by the rays of a rising sun as she holds a torch and an olive branch. On the reverse, a bald eagle is captured in majestic flight. The legends on the coin include the country of origin, United States of America, the denomination of Twenty Dollars, and the traditional motto, In God We Trust.