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Description

Spectacular 1920-D Nickel, MS66
The Finest Certified by PCGS

1920-D 5C MS66 PCGS. CAC. After the huge production during World War One, demand for minor coins dropped significantly, and the U.S. Mint reduced mintage accordingly. No Denver Mint Buffalo nickels were struck from 1921 to 1923. In A Guide Book of Buffalo and Jefferson Nickels, Bowers (2007) writes that "although the 1920-D comes with a large mintage figure, Mint State coins are scarce in general and rare if both Full Details and excellent luster. This issue will be a challenge for the connoisseur."
The 1920-D is seldom seen in better grades, but in MS66 this issue is a fantastic rarity. A look at our Permanent Auction Archives reveals that Heritage has sold only one other Premium Gem example, in March 2007, for just under $100,000. That piece was housed in a PCGS holder, but has apparently since been removed and the population data now indicates that the present coin is the only MS66 example certified by that service. None have been graded higher by PCGS, while NGC reports just two numerically finer examples (8/09).
This offering represents an important opportunity for the serious collector. This issue is usually seen with mushy details and sub-par luster, but this example is the opposite and boasts sharp design elements and scintillating satiny luster. There is just a touch of softness on the hair above the Indian's braid. At first glace this piece appears untoned, but a closer look reveals pleasing yellow-gold and steel-blue accents on both sides. Careful inspection with a loupe reveals just a couple of virtually microscopic handling marks. This fantastic specimen belongs in a collection of the highest quality. It could be years before a 1920-D of this caliber appears at auction.(Registry values: N4719)

Coin Index Numbers: (NGC ID# 22RR, PCGS# 3945, Greysheet# 3120)

Weight: 5.00 grams

Metal: 75% Copper, 25% Nickel


View Certification Details from PCGS

Auction Info

Auction Dates
September, 2009
10th-13th Thursday-Sunday
Bids + Registered Phone Bidders: 11
Lot Tracking Activity: N/A
Page Views: 8,574

Buyer's Premium per Lot:
15% of the successful bid per lot.

Sold on Sep 10, 2009 for: $74,750.00
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