PCGS Reinforces Rules for Suspected “Doctored” Coins

2009 ULTRA HIGH RELIEF GOLD COIN

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Next January, the United States Mint will issue the 2009 Ultra High Relief Double Eagle Gold Coin. This coin promises to fulfill Augustus Saint-Gaudens’ vision of an ultra high relief coin that could not be realized in 1907 with his legendary Double Eagle liberty design.

The 2009 Ultra High Relief Double Eagle Gold Coin will show the Nation and the world the very best the United States Mint has to offer. The 21st century vision of the United States Mint, combined with technological advances, enabled the United States Mint to realize the previously unattainable goal of making the coin accessible to all Americans.

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.

Additionally, a small border was added for a more consistent edge. The 2009 coin will be made of 24-karat gold. Pure 24-karat gold is much more malleable than 22-karat or 90% gold coins, making it better material for striking the ultra high relief.

The United States Mint looks forward to the 21st century and a new era of modern coinage. It eagerly continues the tradition of embodying America’s spirit and identity through its coins and medals. The coin is a uniquely American artistic expression — created by an American sculptor and crafted by an iconic American institution.

The 2009 Ultra High Relief Double Eagle Gold Coin closes one chapter of American coin design and begins a new one. We have perfected what has been called one of the most beautiful coins in the world, but, like America itself, there is much more on the horizon.