1908 $5 Indian PR(PCGS#8539)

June 2018 Baltimore U.S. Coins Auction

拍卖行

Stack's Bowers

批号

79

等级

PR65

价格

249,533

详细说明

Elegant Sand Blast Proof 1908 Indian Half Eagle 1908 Indian Half Eagle. Proof-65 (PCGS). This gorgeous half eagle exhibits the rich, bold, olive-gold color for which the Proof 1908 Indian half eagle is known. The Sand Blast finish imparted numerous sparkling facets to the surfaces, with the texture a bit heavier than on most later date Sand Blast Proof Indian half eagle issues. It is remarkable that the present Gem has survived without the "shiny spots" or other blemishes that typically mar this Proof type. It is fully defined, as would be expected for the method of manufacture, with a handsome appearance that would do justice to the finest gold cabinet. Along with the identically dated quarter eagle, the Proof 1908 half eagle introduced not only Bela Lyon Pratt's unique sunken-relief Indian Head design, but also the technique of sandblasting the surfaces after striking. In anticipation of strong demand from contemporary Americans due to the novelty of the design, the Philadelphia Mint struck 167 specimens. Enough examples sold and were preserved to make the 1908 the most frequently encountered Proof Indian half eagle in today's market. We estimate that no more than 125 coins have survived, however, confirming the scarcity of this issue in an absolute sense. This lovely Gem is one of the leading highlights of the gold offerings in this sale. PCGS Population: 19; 18 finer (Proof-67+ finest). PCGS# 8539. NGC ID: 28E3. Click here for certification details from PCGS.