2009 Ultra High Relief Double Eagle Gold Coin
The 2009 Ultra High Relief Double Eagle Gold Coin was one of the most highly anticipated coins in recent history. The coin recreates that original vision of designer Augustus Saint Gaudens that could not be realized in his time.
The 2009 Ultra High Relief was reproduced by digitally mapping the coin plasters from the original with some updates. The obverse of the coin carries the current date of 2009, expressed in Roman Numerals “MMIX.” The number of stars has been updated from the original 46 to 50, representing the current number of US states. The reverse has had the inscription “In God We Trust” added between the sun and its rays. Both sides of the coin have a small border added along the edge.
The coins are struck in 24 karat gold, and each contain one ounce of gold. Each coin measures 27 mm in diameter and 4 mm in thickness. All coins will carry the 2009 date and will be struck with an uncirculated finish.
The public had its first glimpse of the coin when it was unveiled at the ANA World’s Fair of Money on July 30, 2008. The coin was included as part of a larger display that told the story of the coin from raw material to finished product.
The first strike ceremony for the coin took place at the West Point Mint on November 24, 2008. United States Mint Director had the honor of striking the first coin, which was sent to the Smithsonian Institute. The second coin was retained by the US Mint for their heritage assets.
The 2009 Ultra High Relief Double Eagle first went on sale at the US Mint on January 22, 2009. There was a one per household ordering limit in place. The initial price of the coin was $1,189, but is subject to change based on the price of gold. The US Mint has cautioned customers that delivery of the coin might take up to nine months. Over 40,000 coins were ordered during the first five days of sales.
