On the reverse of the coin: The high relief version also features thicker letters. The letters are much clearer on the high relief variety whereas the letters on the reverse lower relief coin appear blurry (especially in the word “PEACE” at the base of the coin).
What’s the difference between high relief and ultra high relief coins?
High relief coins are more three-dimensional than a standard coin. These coins cannot be easily stacked because their images extend above the outer edge. On ultra high relief coins, the image rises even higher.
When did they stop making high relief coins?
Each coin required nine strikes from a hydraulic press, making mass production practically impossible. The U.S. Mint would go on to produce other high relief coins, including the 1921 Silver Peace Dollar. However, even these coins were so hard on the dies that the mint switched to a much lower relief in 1922.
Is there an irony in high relief coins?
If you’re a silver stacker or gold stacker then there is a certain irony to high relief and ultra high relief coins, because they can’t actually be stacked. Typically, most minted bars and coins can be stacked high and there is a certain satisfaction to doing this and literally creating your own precious metal stack.
