The “1906-2020 Silver Reverse Proof 2 Ounce Barber Double Eagle Ultra High Relief Limited Mintage” medal is a modern, rare tribute piece privately struck in .999 fine silver to commemorate Charles E. Barber’s original Double Eagle coin design, as envisioned for the $20 gold piece but never issued by the U.S. Mint. This medal does not represent an actual historical coin minted for circulation, but is instead a commemorative product issued in conjunction with the Smithsonian Institution and created for advanced collectors and numismatic enthusiasts.
Struck in 2 troy ounces of .999 fine silver, the medal features Barber’s elegant Lady Liberty design in profile with a laurel wreath and Phrygian cap on the obverse, marked “LIBERTY.” The reverse displays a majestic heraldic eagle clutching arrows and an olive branch—emblematic of peace and strength. The “Ultra High Relief” and “Reverse Proof” finish provide exceptional depth and visual contrast, revealing the details in stunning clarity and sculptural relief.
Limited mintage and connection to the Smithsonian Institution enhance this medal’s desirability and collectible value. Examples are certified and graded by NGC, often reaching PR70, indicating perfect condition. The rarity and exceptional strike quality elevate its appeal in the modern market; similar coins and medals with ultra high relief and limited release consistently command strong premiums among collectors.
While the design pays homage to the aesthetic transition from the Barber era to the Saint-Gaudens era of U.S. coinage, it is not an official issue of the U.S. Mint. Instead, it stands as a numismatic masterpiece, honoring an unrealized vision of American coinage in silver, with modern production standards and finishes that far exceed what was achievable in 1906.
In summary, the 1906-2020 Silver Reverse Proof 2-ounce Barber Double Eagle Ultra High Relief medal is a privately issued, museum-connected rare silver tribute featuring Barber’s original $20 Double Eagle concept, limited in mintage and highly valued among collectors for its artistry, rarity, and perfect strike quality.
