1907 Double Eagle Coin – In a discovery that has stunned collectors and historians alike, a 1907 Double Eagle gold coin—valued at an astounding $9.9 million—has been recovered from a century-old shipwreck deep in the Atlantic Ocean. Experts are calling it one of the rarest and most valuable coins ever found underwater. The coin, once thought to be lost forever, is now at the center of international attention and numismatic fascination. The 1907 Double Eagle coin was part of a limited series minted at the height of America’s golden age, designed by the legendary sculptor Augustus Saint-Gaudens. These coins represented not only economic value but also the grandeur of a rapidly growing American empire. Most of these coins were melted down during the Great Depression when gold was recalled by the government. However, a select few escaped destruction—and one such piece has now emerged from the ocean depths. The shipwreck, believed to be that of the SS Republic, which sank in 1865 off the coast of Georgia, has previously yielded other coins and artifacts. But this particular find has shocked even seasoned treasure hunters. It’s a pristine specimen, untouched by salt or decay, preserved under layers of sediment and sealed containers. Marine archaeologists working on the site believe that the coin may have been part of a secret, high-value shipment that was never officially documented. This sensational discovery has opened a floodgate of interest in underwater treasure hunting, numismatics, and early 20th-century American coinage. Investors, historians, and curious collectors are all wondering: What other priceless artifacts might still lie hidden in the deep?
The 1907 Double Eagle Coin – A Brief Overview
The 1907 Double Eagle is not just a coin—it’s a symbol of American art, wealth, and history. Here’s why this gold piece is so highly coveted.
- Designed by Augustus Saint-Gaudens, one of America’s most renowned sculptors
- Minted in extremely limited numbers due to production challenges
- Known for its intricate, high-relief design
- Composed of 90% gold and 10% copper
- Considered a masterpiece in American numismatic history
- Most were melted during the Gold Recall of 1933
- A few specimens survived and are now museum-grade treasures
Specifications and Features of the 1907 Double Eagle Coin
Collectors value the coin for both its beauty and historical significance. Below is a table highlighting its specifications:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Denomination | $20 (Double Eagle) |
| Year Minted | 1907 |
| Designer | Augustus Saint-Gaudens |
| Composition | 90% Gold, 10% Copper |
| Weight | 33.436 grams |
| Diameter | 34 mm |
| Mint Mark | None (Philadelphia Mint) |
| Type | High Relief – Wire Rim or Flat Rim |
Discovery from the Deep – 1907 Double Eagle Coin
Marine salvage teams, equipped with submersibles and scanning technology, stumbled upon a sealed container that held the priceless 1907 coin.
- The discovery was made 1,700 feet below sea level
- Coin was inside a waterproof box protected by lead lining
- No corrosion or physical damage detected
- Accompanied by other early 20th-century gold and silver coins
- Experts believe it belonged to a wealthy passenger or was part of a private shipment
- Authentication confirmed by the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS)
1907 Double Eagle Coin – A Treasure Trove Beneath the Sea
The SS Republic has long been known for its potential treasure, but the 1907 Double Eagle takes its legacy to a new level.
| Ship Name | SS Republic |
|---|---|
| Year Sank | 1865 |
| Location | Off the coast of Georgia, USA |
| Cause of Sinking | Hurricane |
| Depth Found | Approx. 1,700 feet underwater |
| Cargo Recovered | Coins, whiskey bottles, artifacts |
| Latest Find | 1907 Double Eagle worth $9.9 million |
Market Value and Auction History of the 1907 Double Eagle Coin
The coin’s estimated market value has skyrocketed after its recovery, with collectors and museums vying to get their hands on it.
- In 2002, a similar specimen sold for $6.6 million
- Value has appreciated significantly over the last two decades
- The recovered coin is expected to fetch up to $10 million at auction
- Only a handful exist in such pristine condition
- Museums and private collectors have already expressed interest
- Experts predict this could be the most expensive Double Eagle ever sold
Previous Record-Breaking 1907 Double Eagle Coin Sales
Below are some of the highest-grossing coin sales in U.S. history:
| Coin | Sale Price | Year Sold |
|---|---|---|
| 1933 Double Eagle | $18.9 million | 2021 |
| 1794 Flowing Hair Dollar | $10 million | 2013 |
| 1787 Brasher Doubloon | $9.36 million | 2021 |
| 1907 Double Eagle (High Relief) | $6.6 million | 2002 |
| Recovered 1907 Double Eagle | Est. $9.9 million | 2025 |
Why Is This 1907 Double Eagle Coin So Valuable?
There are many reasons why the 1907 Double Eagle stands out among other rare coins, and its story only adds to its worth.
- Limited mintage due to production difficulties
- Artistic legacy by a legendary sculptor
- Most coins from this period were melted
- Found in mint condition after a century underwater
- Symbol of pre-Depression American wealth
- Highly sought-after by top-tier collectors and museums
The Artistic Revolution Behind the Design
Saint-Gaudens’ involvement marked a turning point in American coinage. He brought a sculptor’s eye to what was once a purely utilitarian object.
- Introduced the high-relief technique in minting
- Faced pushback from the U.S. Mint for production feasibility
- Each coin took 11 strikes to complete due to detail complexity
- The design was later flattened for easier mass production
- The original high-relief version remains a collector’s holy grail
The Future of Shipwreck Coin Discoveries
This find has reinvigorated interest in shipwreck expeditions. Could there be more such coins waiting beneath the waves?
- Advances in underwater tech make deep-sea exploration easier
- Growing investor interest in treasure-hunting ventures
- Marine salvage laws vary globally, influencing ownership rights
- Governments and private firms collaborate for large expeditions
- Increased funding may uncover more historical coins soon
Legal and Ownership Questions Surrounding the Find
Who owns a coin found in international waters? Here’s how the legal puzzle plays out.
| Scenario | Legal Status |
|---|---|
| Found in international waters | May belong to finder (salvage rights) |
| Found in territorial waters | Subject to national heritage laws |
| Recovered from known shipwreck | May be claimed by shipowner’s estate |
| Declared treasure | Shared between finder and state |
Impact on the Numismatic Community
The discovery has created waves across coin collectors and historians globally.
- Renewed interest in early 20th-century coinage
- Surge in value for other Double Eagles in the market
- Increased attendance at coin expos and auctions
- Museums looking to expand American gold coin exhibits
- Enthusiasts researching lost coin shipments from old voyages
Rare Coin Investment Opportunities
Investing in rare coins is now seen as a legitimate alternative asset.
- Coins like the 1907 Double Eagle are appreciating faster than gold
- Limited supply and historical value offer long-term stability
- Suitable for high-net-worth individuals and institutions
- Authentication and storage costs must be factored in
- Returns often realized through auctions or private sales
Key Differences Between Common and Rare Double Eagles
| Feature | Common Double Eagle | 1907 High Relief Double Eagle |
|---|---|---|
| Mint Year | Various | 1907 |
| Design Relief | Standard | High Relief |
| Market Value | $2,000 – $5,000 | $5 million – $10 million |
| Scarcity | Moderate | Ultra Rare |
| Artistic Value | Good | Exceptional |
The tale of the $9.9 million Double Eagle is more than just a story of treasure—it’s a glimpse into the opulence of America’s past, a celebration of artistic brilliance, and a reminder that the deep still holds secrets waiting to be uncovered. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a curious reader, this find proves that history continues to surprise us in the most dazzling ways.
FAQs of 1907 Double Eagle Coin
Q1. How many 1907 High Relief Double Eagle coins exist today?
A1. Fewer than 20 are believed to exist in pristine condition worldwide.
Q2. Can I buy one of these coins as an individual?
A2. Yes, but availability is extremely limited and usually auctioned at high-end numismatic events.
Q3. Who currently owns the recovered coin?
A3. The coin is currently in possession of the salvage team pending legal clarification and expected auction.
Q4. Are shipwreck discoveries like this common?
A4. While shipwrecks are frequently found, coins of this value and condition are extremely rare.
Q5. Can I participate in treasure hunting or invest in such ventures?
A5. Yes, several private firms offer investment opportunities in marine salvage operations.