Lot 2639
1911 $20 St. Gaudens. NGC graded Proof 66. Untoned and boldly struck. Only 100 Proofs struck. In NGC holder 1727005-019. The situation facing collectors of sandblast or matte Proofs is the delicate nature of the surface finish. Proofs were struck from specially prepared dies which, once struck (on the mint's hydraulic medal press) possessed a bright sheen to them. The mint then blasted the surface with a stream of fine sand particles, thus giving its name to the finished product. The lack of any shiny spots in the overall matte finish indicates careful handling by prior owners, as this always enhances the eye appeal and technical desirability of such coins. A magnificently preserved Proof 66 with razor-sharp detail. Very few like it are available.
All Proof 1911 double eagles seen to date are of the matte or sandblast type, nearest to 1908 and of nearly the same color. Of the 100 Proofs that were made, possibly fewer than the mintage survive. Pop 15; 15 finer; 11 in 67; 4 in 68. (PCGS # 9208) .
Estimated Value $60,000 - 65,000.
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| Realized $69,000 |
