Augustus Saint-Gaudens: The Artistic Genius Behind the 1907 Double Eagle
Augustus Saint-Gaudens was not merely a sculptor; he was a visionary artist whose influence extended deeply into the realm of American numismatics. Commissioned by President Theodore Roosevelt to enhance the beauty of American coinage, Saint-Gaudens created masterpieces that elevated coins to the status of miniature sculptures.
Born in Ireland in 1848 and raised in New York City, Augustus Saint-Gaudens became one of the most celebrated sculptors of his time. His works adorn many public spaces across the United States, from the monument of Civil War hero Admiral Farragut in New York’s Madison Square Park to the Robert Gould Shaw Memorial on Boston Common.
In 1905, President Theodore Roosevelt, an ardent admirer of Saint-Gaudens’ work, sought to reform the design of American coins. Displeased with the lackluster designs then in circulation, Roosevelt commissioned Saint-Gaudens to redesign several denominations, including the double eagle ($20 gold coin) and the eagle ($10 gold coin). This marked a turning point in American numismatic history, where artistic expression and national identity converged.
1907 High Relief Double Eagle
In the early 20th century, President Theodore Roosevelt sought to revitalize American coinage, which he believed lacked artistic merit. To achieve this, he commissioned renowned sculptor Augustus Saint-Gaudens to redesign the nation’s coinage. Among the most celebrated results of this collaboration was the 1907 High Relief Double Eagle, a $20 gold coin that remains a testament to Roosevelt’s vision of coins as miniature works of art.
Saint-Gaudens’ design for the 1907 High Relief Double Eagle epitomized the neoclassical style prevalent in the early 20th century. On the obverse, Lady Liberty strides forward, holding a torch and olive branch, symbols of enlightenment and peace. The reverse features a majestic eagle in flight, embodying strength and freedom. The high relief of the coin gives it a dynamic, three-dimensional appearance, showcasing Saint-Gaudens’ mastery over form and composition.
Saint-Gaudens’ contributions to numismatics extended beyond the aesthetic appeal of his designs. His emphasis on beauty and artistic merit set a new standard for coinage worldwide. The 1907 Double Eagle, in particular, remains a benchmark for collectors and artists alike, inspiring generations with its timeless elegance and symbolic depth.
