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"1907 $20 High Relief, PR64 NGC. 1907[$2"

Currency:USD Category:Coins & Paper Money / US Coins Start Price:1.00 USD Estimated At:1.00 - 1,000,000.00 USD
 1907 $20 High Relief, PR64 NGC. 1907[$2
<B>1907<$20> High Relief PR64 NGC.</B></I> Proof High Relief twenties are controversial coins. NGC certifies them, PCGS does not. The "regular" High Relief twenty was by definition a special coin that required multiple blows from a hydraulic press to bring up the intricate detail in the dies. The Ultra High Reliefs are certainly proofs, as evidenced by the special preparation these coins received, i.e., annealing between the multiple blows from the press. But then, Ultras have design differences and are thicker than regular High Reliefs, and are thus unmistakable. Certainly some High Reliefs have different sized edge lettering and some even have different finishes, an almost certain indication that these pieces were struck in proof format. But what of the regular High Relief twenties? Were they struck with the intention of being proofs or presentation pieces? The evidence would seem to indicate that some were.<BR> Since there are no die markers to aid in identifying proof High Reliefs, the only way to reliably distinguish such coins is by examining striking characteristics. It is generally accepted that High Reliefs were struck three times with a medal press. As most advanced collectors know, even such care was not enough to ensure absolute clarity of strike on these pieces. Often the lettering on the upper reverse tends to blend in with the rim, and the capitol building can sometimes lack full definition. Proof High Relief twenties would by definition have been struck more times than a regular High Relief. How many times is not known, but examination of this piece shows a crispness of strike that is unusual even on a High Relief. The peripheral letters on the reverse are fully separated from the rim, all the design elements are completely detailed on each side, and there is an irregular wire rim present. This wire rim shows that this piece was struck with enough force to extrude small bits of metal between the die and collar. Additionally, the surfaces are bright yellow gold, and close examination shows myriad, swirling die polish lines in the fields. An outstanding proof High Relief and a worthy addition to an advanced set of Saint-Gaudens twenties.<BR><I>From The Alexander Collection.</B></I>