1908 $10 Motto PR65 PCGS....

Description

1908 With Motto Eagle, PR65
High-End for the Grade

1908 $10 Motto PR65 PCGS. The proof 1908 Indian eagle had one of the highest proof mintages in the series (116 pieces), outnumbered only by the 1910 (204 pieces). This was the first year that proofs of the new Indian type were made available to collectors, and demand was somewhat higher than it would prove to be in later years after collectors became dissatisfied with the matte finish.

Apparently, the Mint experimented with three different finishes on the 1908 proof eagles. The one marketed to collectors, and comprising virtually the entirety of the 116-piece mintage, was the matte finish, typically seen with a dark, somewhat granular surface appearance and muted luster. PCGS and NGC report having seen a combined total of four proof 1908 eagles featuring a distinctly satin appearance, and it is likely these were struck as experimental pieces late in the year, as this finish is seen on nearly all proof eagles coined in 1909. PCGS CoinFacts further identifies a third finish for the 1908 proof ten, described as a Roman finish, though no such coin has thus far been encapsulated.

Of the 116 proof 1908 ten dollar pieces struck (all of the With Motto subtype), only about 40 to 50 are believed to survive today; some were likely spent during the challenging economic times following their issuance, and Breen suggests a number of unsold pieces were likely melted in 1917. Whatever the case, the issue is a prized rarity in any grade, and Gem-quality pieces draw substantial demand from Indian gold and proof gold specialists.

This matte proof representative is simply exceptional in every respect; the devices are struck to full definition and the bronze-gold matte surfaces seem flawlessly preserved, delivering the overall impression of an even finer grade. Often regarded as inferior at the time of their issue, proof Indian gold eagles with the matte finish are now recognized rarities and are widely sought in whatever grade they might be available. This attractive Gem will prove a pleasant reward for the patient specialist. Population: 14 in 65, 10 finer (6/14).(Registry values: N7079)

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

Weight: 16.72 grams

Metal: 90% Gold, 10% Copper

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.

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