1908 $10 Motto PR67 NGC. This was a historic year for the U.S. Mint. It was the first year proofs were struck of the new Sa...

Description

Superb, Seemingly Perfect Matte Proof 1908 Ten Dollar

1908 $10 Motto PR67 NGC. This was a historic year for the U.S. Mint. It was the first year proofs were struck of the new Saint-Gaudens design, and it was also the first year the Mint used the new matte proofing process. The new designs were a big success with collectors of the day and have remained so over succeeding generations. However, the matte proofing process was less successful, and in fact, was generally disliked by contemporary collectors.

There were 116 proof tens struck in this year, and all but two have the distinctive dark finish, between a khaki and olive color. It is widely recognized that the 1908 is the most "common" date among the series of matte proof ten Indians. However, the number extant is not as large as one might at first believe. Not only did attrition take a heavy toll on this date, but the widespread distribution among non-collectors caused many of the surviving proofs of this date to be impaired, a significant number show nicks, scratches, or shiny spots. Traditional sources state that somewhere between two and three dozen pieces exist today. However, we believe a slightly larger number are extant, somewhere in the range of 40-55 coins.

This is a flawless rendering of Saint-Gaudens' design. Fully detailed in all areas, the matte surfaces show thousands of tiny sparkling facets that distribute light in a random manner rather than a uniformly reflective mirror as seen on earlier (and later) proof strikings. We really have not been able to locate any post-striking impairments on this coin. That is both good and bad. It is wonderful for the next owner; however, there is nothing the researcher or new owner can latch onto in order to trace the pedigree of this important matte proof Ten. Population: 2 in 67, 2 finer (11/03). (Registry values: N10218)

Coin Index Numbers: (NGC ID# 268E, PCGS# 8890, GSID# 9776)

Metal: 90% Gold, 10% Copper
Weight: 16.72 grams
AGW: 0.48375oz
Mintage: 116

Note for clients in the European Union: This lot is considered by the European Union to be “investment gold”. We believe that it meets the criteria established in Article 344(1), point (2) of Council Directive 2006/112/EC and thus should be exempt from import VAT regardless of the selling price. Any questions or concerns about VAT should be addressed to your accountant or local tax authority.

View Certification Details from NGC