Canada: Victoria 50 Cents 1881-H,...

Description

Exceptional 1881-H Victoria 50 Cents MS65

Victoria 50 Cents 1881-H, KM6, MS65 PCGS, Ex: Alston-Grossman. The 1881-H issue was minted to the extent of 150,000 coins and is the most generally available of the early Heaton Mint issues, while still scarce in XF and rare in Mint State. The 1881-H features a somewhat different obverse (H3) that, according to the Charlton Catalogue, shows a "large space between crudely formed bow and ribbon at the nape of the neck." That anomaly and the generally poor workmanship of the dies have led to some speculation that this issue was struck after the date stamped.

The present example is exceptional in that regard, and it is the single finest certified and only Gem known to PCGS (7/09). Consistent tones of violet occupy both sides, and there are few significant contact marks. A small extra blob of metal is noted inside the G of REGINA, and the strike, while pleasing overall, is somewhat blunt on the venation of the lower reverse leaves--still a remarkable Gem and an incredibly elusive coin, but one that does seem to adhere to a somewhat lower production standard than the earlier Heaton Mint issues.
From the Canadiana Collection

More information about Canadian Coins. See also: Canada World Coin Nationality.

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