Lot 3486
1907 $20 St. Gaudens. High relief, wire rim. NGC graded Proof 65. A magnificent untoned gem exhibiting a mixture of satiny and frosty mint luster. One of the most magnificent coins ever struck, this regal gem boasts creamy rich gold luster throughout and near-perfection surfaces. The strike is razor-sharp on all motifs.
These were coined on the largest press then available, the Mint's medal press using hydraulic pistons to drive the dies, with maximum pressure to bring up the "high" relief cut deeply into the hardened die steel. Not just one strike, but many were essential to fully complete the minute details on Liberty's head, hand and the tops of the eagle's wing features. As seen here, the coin's devices jump right off the surfaces, or so it seems.
Examining the towering rendition of Lady Liberty is like observing Switzerland's Matterhorn when compared to normally struck, post high-relief coins of this denomination. Collectors needn't be reminded that the High Reliefs were basically experimental pieces, and required surmounting several challenges to remain true to Saint-Gaudens stylistic design. Success was complete, as viewed here, but at a price. Only a few Proofs were made before the high relief devices were greatly reduced to a more high-speed-production friendly lower relief coin.
While we haven't seen all of the other Proof 65s graded by NGC in this illustrious condition, we may assume that they are equally magnificent specimens. Certain to be the centerpiece of any collection and worthy of a strong bid. Pop 16; 23 finer, 10 in 66, 1 in 66 Star, 6 in 67, 4 in 67 Star, 1 in 68 Star, 1 in 69.
Estimated Value $40,000 - 45,000.
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| Realized $43,700 |
