An ultra-high tilt cryotransfer holder is provided which is capable of rotating a specimen through a full 360.degree. tilt angle (180.degree. from horizontal in both clockwise and counterclockwise directions) without spillage of cryogenic liquid, and while maintaining proper protection and cooling of the specimen. The cryotransfer holder includes a holder body having a specimen tip and a source of cooling for the specimen tip. The specimen tip includes a specimen grid of a thermally conductive material which has a plurality of grid openings between crossing grid bars. The grid may be extended from the holder into a forward viewing position or retracted into a protected position within a cryoshield.