Lot 1354
1926-S. PCGS graded MS-65. Premium Quality. Wonderful toning on both sides. Well struck. Long regarded as a key date in the series, the 1926-S Buffalo nickel reached a series low when only 970,000 pieces were struck. The issue is particularly hard to pin down in Mint condition with Gems obtainable only on rare occasions.
The Forsythe specimen is a strong candidate for World Class honors, since it is tied with just a few other specimens certified at this level by PCGS, with none finer. The consistent technical quality of this piece is fully harmonized by the important subjective aspect we all know at once but often find difficult to put into words: eye appeal. A memorable coin in this grade.
To say there were virtually no collectors for the 1926-S nickel the year it came out is simple fact; the majority of the production went into circulation. Few were saved; original rolls are something to imagine in a Wizard of Oz realm, they never have existed. Today, collectors attach great importance to the issue, more so as the years slip by. The situation would change dramatically were a few dozen to turn up as if by magic in gem grade, but this isn’t about to happen, Mint State specimens have dwindled to almost nothing in the marketplace.
According to Bowers, "Among Mint State 1926-S nickels, many are dull, stained, artificially toned, or otherwise unsatisfactory -- including more than a few in certified holders. The striking is unremarkable, the result of inaccurate die spacing and, perhaps, keeping dies in the press too long." Well, this specimen is a step above those unremarkable ones, several steps above, in fact. The strike is much bolder than normally seen, with only residual softness on the bison's head and none in the Indian's hair. The surfaces delight the viewer with their lustrous glow and delicate original patina. Overall the appearance is unapproachable; the well-preserved surfaces mark-free. Everyone should jump at the chance to acquire this prime example, since few others exist in a similar state of preservation and these may lie hidden for decades. Pop 14; none finer at PCGS. (PCGS # 3959) Estimated Value $45,000 - 50,000
The Gerald Forsythe Duplicate Buffalo Nickel Collection.
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