1908 $5 Indian PR(PCGS#8539)

The Regency Auction 31

拍卖行

Legend Rare Coin Auctions

批号

421

等级

PR66

价格

609,360

详细说明

This has got to be one of the FINEST PR66 1908 half eagles that exists, and the stunning eye appeal is of world class quality! This is a wonderful example of the sandblast or matte proof finish. At the time of issue, these were not popular, as collectors were familiar with the brilliant mirror finish proofs struck up to 1907. With the new design, mint officials began experimenting with the sand blast finishes that were being produced in France, Britain, and Italy. This is a totally original and beautiful example with exquisite, rich olive-gold surfaces. The sandblast finish left countless microscopic facets on the surfaces, that sparkle like tiny diamonds on the surfaces of both sides to captivate the viewer's eye. Needless to say, the eye appeal is spectacular and will delight any Proof gold collector. The original mintage reported was 500 struck on November 25, 1908, of those, 167 were sold to collectors and delivered on December 30. The remaining coins were subsequently melted. In his new reference on Proof Gold coins, scholar and researcher John Dannreuther estimates that 80-100 survive in all grades. PCGS 16, NGC 27, CAC 6. There are only two recent records for PCGS/CAC coins selling in auction. The first one was in the 2016 ANA auction, realizing $88,125 and the other sold in the 2018 ANA auction for $96,000. Clearly the Collectors Universe value needs updating as it is listed at $74,500. Only four coins have graded finer, the finest being a single PR67+ which sold in July 2013 for $152,750. This is an amazing and high end example that will be a great start to a collection of Matte Proof Indian Head half eagles and we know it will incite a fierce bidding war when it crosses the block! Cert. Number 36208716 PCGS # 8539