2009 Ultra High Relief Double Eagle
It will be a banner year in 2009 for fans of Augustus Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle. Earlier in the year the U.S. Mint announced plans to reliease an updated version of the coin. Now we get to see the pictures of the coin to be released in January 2009. St. Gaudens vision originally was to have the coin available in very high relief, something that simply wasn't technically achievable in 1907 when originally released.
The U.S. Mint announcement says, "Through 21st century technology and the vision of Director Ed Moy, original Saint-Gaudens coin plasters were digitally mapped by the United States Mint. Using the digital design and die-making process, the Saint-Gaudens sculpture — in ultra high relief — has been updated to reflect the year 2009, an additional four stars to represent the current 50 states, and the inscription “In God We Trust,” which was not on the 1907 version."
With more about the technical aspects and content of the new gold coin the Mint statement continues with, "Additionally, a small border was added for a more consistent edge. The 2009 coin will be made of 24-karat gold, rather than the original’s 22-karat grade. Pure 24-karat gold is much more malleable than 22-karat, making it better material for striking the ultra high relief."
From the available pictures this will be a gold coin all collectors will find great pleasure in owning. While it will only be available for one year the mint has no plans at this time to limit mintage quantities. The plan is to produce the coin in gold for the year 2009 and in 2010 release it in Palladium is legislation currently in Congress is passed in time.
Saint-Gaudens original Double Eagle design is uniquely American and the world lost many beautiful coins when they were ordered destroyed in 1933. This new gold coin appears to embody the best of Saint-Gaudens vision and update it for todays market. While all collectors would love to have an early St. Gaudens Double Eagle the high prices of mint state coins keeps many away from ownership. The 2009 Ultra High Relief Double Eagle will allow many the opportunity to own a beautiful piece of coin art.
