HR Saints - What to look for?

Clackamas1 · June 27, 2026 1:08AM

I am going to be looking for an HR Saint, interested in the proofs but I really want one the knocks my socks off. These are so awesome IMO. I have a details (mount removed) XF and it is wonderful but I want a full MS one with real mirror fields. What are the things you really love about them?

MFeld · June 27, 2026 3:17AM

None of them have mirrored fields.

jmlanzaf · June 27, 2026 4:57AM

I've always found them disappointing

Project Numismatics · June 27, 2026 5:20AM

Walkerguy21D · June 27, 2026 6:02AM

If you really want a Proof (HR saints are specimen proofs I think), it looks like there are only about a dozen or so known, so you probably can’t be picky.

Those classified as MS are much more abundant, and come with both a flat edge and a wire edge. So if you go the MS route, you should probably first decide which style appeals to you, then go from there.

Abundant is relative, of course.
I once saw 24 HR saints at Larry Lee’s (RIP Larry) table at a FUN show, which was cool to examine, but sort of diminished the aura of the coin for me. But they will always be a desirable coin for many collectors to obtain. Good luck with your search!

MFeld · June 27, 2026 6:17AM

@Walkerguy21D said:
If you really want a Proof (HR saints are specimen proofs I think), it looks like there are only about a dozen or so known, so you probably can’t be picky.

Those classified as MS are much more abundant, and come with both a flat edge and a wire edge. So if you go the MS route, you should probably first decide which style appeals to you, then go from there.

Abundant is relative, of course.
I once saw 24 HR saints at Larry Lee’s (RIP Larry) table at a FUN show, which was cool to examine, but sort of diminished the aura of the coin for me. But they will always be a desirable coin for many collectors to obtain. Good luck with your search!

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You must have been thinking about the Ultra High Relief Proofs. The PCGS population for them is 10, compared to the NGC population of 6.

The NGC population for regular Proof 1907 High Reliefs, that @Clackmas1 was asking about, is approximately 300. And the PCGS “SP” population is 18. As best I recall, it’s only been a few years since they started designating any of them “SP” and they don’t recognize any as “Proof”.

PeakRarities · June 27, 2026 6:27AM

Mirror fields? Are we talking about the 2009 UHR’s or the 1907 HR.

I’m going to assume you’re asking about 1907, but the value grades are finding a really nice 58/slider where flatness is barely visible and details are strong.

Otherwise, I’d stick to a ch/unc + kind of coin, a nice 64 or really nice 63. The spread for CAC is relatively small by percentage, but as with typical gold criteria I prefer a richer and natural color, non battered face. and a clean rim especially for the wire edges.

The way that NGC designates a number of them as “proofs” and PCGS does “sp” is is controversial, but there are diagnostics that serve to identify that marriage. The difference from a business strike is not drastic , it’s very subtle but either way it’s more of a satiny finish than a mirror.