It's just a marketing ploy.

It sure sounds like everyone is quite excited about the UHR eagles. It has been quite enjoyable reading the entries here and on the chat boards about these coins. It's great to know that there is such a huge interest in them.

That being said...I must also add a few tid bits about the "EARLY RELEASE" program from NGC. I hate to burst anyones bubble but it is just a marketing ploy. The US Mint does not release/sell coins earlier then the date specified on their web site. For example...you and I buy a UHR the first day they are available from the mint and receive it a week later. You send yours off to NGC the next day and receive the "early release" designation. I send mine in July and don't receive the designation. Is there any difference between the coins...NONE AT ALL. The only difference is when they were submitted to NGC. You have to meet NGC's time frame. It has nothing to do with the mint release date but everything to do with NGC's submission date. And usually the mint has already minted about half the coins before their sale date.

I still can't explain why "early release" coins go for more money on the open market. But if these are the coins you like and collect, I respect that. It is your collection and have fun with it!!

Remember...buy the coin...not the slab!

Jeffrey