MCMVII (1907) Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle. High Relief. Wire Rim. MS-64 (NGC). The splendid Choice Mint State surfaces of this MCMVII High Relief $20 are fully lustrous with a satin to softly frosted texture. The strike is razor sharp and both sides display lovely patina with a tinge of pale rose to otherwise dominant honey-gold. In 1905 and 1906, Augustus Saint-Gaudens prepared sketches and models, including for the cent, $10 and $20. However, he was in failing health, and by the time he passed away on August 3, 1907, his work was unfinished. The cent never went beyond the concept stage, but the Indian Head $10 and the High Relief $20 were essentially done, with finishing details provided by Saint-Gaudens assistant, Henry Hering. Fortunately for numismatists today, the MCMVII was a sensation when examples were first released into circulation in December 1907. Bank tellers and others saved all they could find, and soon they sold at a premium, $25 and then $30. Years later, as the passion faded, many were turned in and spent, including in the 1930s when the government called in all gold coins. The present piece is a handsome near-Gem example of the Saint-Gaudens double eagle design as it exists before being modified for mass production. It is a treasure of numismatics and U.S. history and is sure to appeal to connoisseurs of American numismatic treasures of the 20th century.
