Lot 1267
1911 $5 Indian. NGC graded Proof 68. In NGC holder 2019388-002. Well struck. Only 139 Proofs minted. This example is phenomenal for its sharp strike. Nearly all matte or sandblast Proof gold issues are, of course, but truth be told, few can hold a candle to this incredible specimen. The surfaces have a microscopically grainy appearance with myriad points of tiny bright facets. So perfect is it that the coin is pretty much "as struck," what's more, the surfaces are devoid of any blemishes or handling signs. There are no copper spots. This half eagle is rightly positioned to attract the most mature -- may we say "refined"? -- buyer. We expect considerable activity today because of the strong gold market and also a stronger than usual market in great American gold rarities
The Indian design half eagles, along with quarter eagles, eagles, and double eagles of the same 1908 to 1915 period were all designed at the Mint following suggestions by Bela Lyon Pratt. The Mint in Philadelphia was experimenting with different coin styles at the time and grabbed onto Pratt's "recessed relief" idea of sinking the design below the surface of the coin. Types of finish for Proof coins were also experimental in this period, ranging from satiny bright (the so-called Roman finish of 1909-10) to varying stages of sandblast (1908 and 1911-15) for the various gold denominations, not only the five-dollar pieces. Pop 4; none finer at NGC (PCGS # 8542) .
Estimated Value $60,000 - 70,000.
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| Realized $74,750 |
