Lot 964
1918-S Buffalo Nickel. PCGS graded MS-65. Lovely blue and gold toning on both sides. Well struck. There is a short die break from the rim to the top feather on the obverse, as well as some die clash from the reverse visible at the Indian's chin. Elusive and quite costly as a Gem as any serious collector of this series knows, this gorgeous example is free of noticeable abrasions, has wonderful color and top-notch eye-appeal. The strike, everywhere complete, is well above par for the usually poorly made '18-S issue and both sides reveal needle-sharp detail. Pop 28; 1 finer in 66 (PCGS # 3940) .
The San Francisco Mint issued a little under 4.9 million buffalo nickels in 1918. Many were struck from worn, overused dies according to David Lange's research (hence the weak strikes floating around that are all too common). Nearly the whole consignment, it seems, were released into circulation. Very few Gem 1918-S buffalo nickels that have come through our auction sales are this sharply struck. Neither the unaided eye nor a magnifying lens reveals much in the way of the usual tiny, scattered abrasions found on this issue; and even a strong loupe fails to draw forth any bagmarks that are out of context with the remarkable assigned grade. This is easily one of the most eye-popping beautiful offerings in this sale. Furthermore, it is a Gem that would make an important foundation pillar to a collection of Registry Set quality.
Estimated Value $28,000 - 30,000.
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