2020 Barber Silver 5 oz NGC Reverse PR70 Ultra High Double Eagle Smithsonian
Description:
This 1906-2020 Barber Five-Ounce Silver "Double Eagle" is a remarkable private-issue Ultra High Relief silver medal, created to honor the legacy of Charles E. Barber, one of the most influential engravers in U.S. Mint history. This reverse-proof medal was privately struck in five troy ounces of .999 fine silver to benefit the Smithsonian Institution, ensuring both its numismatic and historical significance.
The obverse features Barber’s original concept for a $20 Double Eagle, an elegant yet unrealized design from the early 20th century. It showcases Lady Liberty in profile, wearing a laurel wreath and a Phrygian cap, with the inscription “LIBERTY” above. This design was proposed before Augustus Saint-Gaudens' version of the Double Eagle was ultimately chosen in 1907.
The reverse presents a majestic heraldic eagle, clutching arrows and an olive branch, symbolizing strength and peace. This intricate design reflects the classical American coinage style of the late 19th and early 20th centuries, embodying the artistic transition from the Barber era to the Saint-Gaudens era.
Graded Reverse PR70 Ultra High Relief by NGC, this medal is in perfect condition, with flawless surfaces and breathtaking depth. The Ultra High Relief strike gives the piece a sculptural appearance, reminiscent of the famous 1907 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle High Relief.
Collector’s Value:
This privately issued, Smithsonian-benefit silver medal is an extraordinary tribute to Barber’s artistic vision, brought to life over a century later. With a perfect PR70 grade, a five-ounce silver composition, and an ultra-high relief strike, this collectible is a masterpiece of modern numismatics. Its limited availability and connection to the Smithsonian Institution make it a prized acquisition for both history enthusiasts and collectors of rare U.S. coinage designs.
