A stunning discovery has rocked the world of coin collectors: a 1907 Ultra High Relief Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle, valued at $9.9 million, was recently recovered from a shipwreck. This rare gold coin, designed by famed sculptor Augustus Saint-Gaudens, is one of the most beautiful and sought-after coins in American history. Its high-relief design and limited mintage make it a treasure for numismatists. The find has sparked excitement, as few of these coins exist, and this one’s journey from the ocean floor to the auction block is a tale of history and adventure.
A Coin of Beauty and Rarity
The 1907 Ultra High Relief Double Eagle is a masterpiece. Created at the request of President Theodore Roosevelt, who wanted to make American coins more artistic, Saint-Gaudens crafted a design featuring Lady Liberty striding forward with a torch and olive branch, and an eagle soaring on the reverse. The coin’s ultra-high relief required multiple strikes to produce, making it impractical for mass production. Only about 20 were ever made, and their value has soared over time, with recent sales reaching up to $4.75 million at auctions.
The Shipwreck Discovery
This particular coin was found in the wreckage of the SS Gairsoppa, a British cargo ship sunk by a German submarine in 1941 off the coast of Ireland. The ship carried silver, iron, and tea, but the discovery of this rare coin among the treasures was unexpected. Recovered by Odyssey Marine Exploration, the coin was found in remarkable condition despite decades underwater. Experts believe it may have been part of a private collection or payment being transported during World War II. The find adds a layer of mystery to the coin’s already legendary status.
Why It’s Worth $9.9 Million
The coin’s value comes from its rarity, condition, and historical significance. Graded as Proof 69 by experts, it’s one of the finest examples known. Here’s why it’s so special:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Mintage | Only ~20 coins produced |
| Condition | Proof 69, near-perfect |
| Design | Ultra-high relief, artistic detail |
| Historical Value | Tied to Roosevelt’s coinage reform |
Its recovery from a shipwreck adds a unique story, boosting its appeal to collectors. The $9.9 million valuation reflects its status as a top-tier rarity in numismatics.
A Collector’s Dream
The coin’s discovery has sent waves through the collecting world. Experts say its condition is extraordinary for a shipwreck find, with minimal damage from its time underwater. Previous sales of Ultra High Relief Double Eagles, like one for $4.32 million in 2023 from the Harry W. Bass Jr. Collection, show the market’s hunger for these coins. This shipwreck specimen, with its pristine state and dramatic backstory, could set a new record at auction. Collectors and investors are already buzzing about who might claim this prize.
What’s Next for the Coin
The coin is expected to be auctioned soon, with Heritage Auctions likely to handle the sale given their history with similar rarities. Its $9.9 million estimate could climb higher as bidders compete for this once-in-a-lifetime find. Beyond its monetary value, the coin represents a piece of American history, blending art, ambition, and adventure. As it moves from the ocean’s depths to a collector’s vault, this 1907 Double Eagle continues to captivate, proving that some treasures are worth more than gold.
