1907 $20 High Relief, Wire Rim MS65 NGC....

Description

1907 High Relief Twenty, Wire Rim, MS65
Reminiscent of Ancient Greek Coinage

1907 $20 High Relief, Wire Rim MS65 NGC. Ex: Simpson. Throughout his career, sculptor Augustus Saint-Gaudens did many low-relief portraits, most of wealthy patrons. When one examines these portraits what is remarkable is the appearance of depth he was able to achieve, mostly through the skillful use of shadows in the subject's hair and clothing. It can almost be called a trick of the eye how these low relief portraits achieved the appearance of dimensionality. On the other hand, there are his portraits done in high relief, such as the Shaw Memorial and the High Relief double eagle that actually thrust the figure(s) forward from the background, and achieve dimensionality in real space, not just by shadowing. Both formats equally inform the viewer of the subject's appearance. The reason numismatists remain intrigued by the High Relief twenty dollar is because it is so unlike any coin struck in modern memory. As President Roosevelt pointed out to Saint-Gaudens in early 1905, he wanted American coinage that was reminiscent of the high relief coins struck in ancient Greece. It required two and a half years to achieve that goal, but once struck the 1907 High Relief twenties went to the top of the list of collectors' favorite coins. This Gem example displays the enduring popularity of this single-year issue. The rich, satin-like surfaces are unaffected by any noticeable contact marks and the strike is strong throughout. Just the slightest bit of reddish patina is present.(Registry values: N7079)

Coin Index Numbers: (NGC ID# 26F2, PCGS# 9135, Greysheet# 10131)

Weight: 33.44 grams

Metal: 90% Gold, 10% Copper

Note for clients in the European Union: This lot is considered by the European Union to be “investment gold”. We believe that it meets the criteria established in Article 344(1), point (2) of Council Directive 2006/112/EC and thus should be exempt from import VAT regardless of the selling price. Any questions or concerns about VAT should be addressed to your accountant or local tax authority.

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