Lot 1284
1930-S $10 Indian. PCGS graded MS-65. A well struck gem with gorgeous original surfaces throughout as evidenced by the natural russet toning spots on both sides.
A widely sought, rarely available key to the Indian $10 eagle series, the 1930-S is the only gold delivery of the 1927-1931 years insofar as the ten-dollar denomination is concerned. To some, it may surprise that most have survived in Mint State grade. Rarer than even a limited original mintage of 96,000 coins might imply, and the issue is believed to have seen widespread melting in the Mint. Only a few got into collectors' hands. For this reason, the '30-S is not rightly thought of as a condition rarity. However this doesn't mean the issue isn't an absolute rarity with precious few coins in existence at all grade levels.
Catalogers take tremendous pride when given the opportunity to describe a 1930-S Indian Eagle in Gem condition. The fact that this coin is a smooth-looking, blast-of-gold honor-roll specimen makes it all the more enjoyable to examine and describe. Both sides gleam with dominant reddish-gold color that yields to lighter rose-colored tinting in a few isolated areas on the obverse such as within the feathers. Pleasingly sharp striking detail is seen inside and out, as is flowing mint frost that defines the word "exceptional quality" (even by the standards of this well-produced issue). There are scarcely any abrasions to be found. The eye appeal alone places it close to an even finer Gem rating. In closing, a coin that will easily serve as a centerpiece in an advanced collection of 20th century gold. Pop 15; 3 in 66, 1 in 67 (PCGS # 8883) .
So what would $10 buy you in 1930? Using prices from Morris County, New Jersey (of all places), "a survey of retail prices advertised in the Daily Record, October 1-15, 1930" we find that Women's shoes, leather heels, cost $10.00 a pair; a Housekeeper, $30.00 a month; a Hungarian cook, 12 years experience, $75.00 a month.
Bread, Victor's (big pan loaf) 5¢ (that's a lot of loaves for $10!); Eggs, 39¢ a dozen; Beef, prime rib, 29¢ a pound; Toilet paper, American 20¢ for 3 rolls; Morristown, 5 room house for sale, $3,500 (meaning 350 of these lovely gold coins); Mt. Tabor 5 room house for rent, $20.00 a month; Kittens, angora, $5.00 each (two for a 1930-S $10, a bargain), Typewriter, Underwood Standard, "like new," $37.50.
Estimated Value $60,000 - 65,000.
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| Realized $60,375 |
