1908 $5 MS65 PCGS....

Description

Wonderful Gem 1908 Half Eagle

1908 $5 MS65 PCGS. Though modern sources such as the 2008 Guide Book list Bela Lyon Pratt as the creator of the Indian Head quarter eagle and half eagle designs, such credit was lacking a century ago. Roger W. Burdette, in his Renaissance of American Coinage 1905 - 1908, quotes a letter from Pratt to his mother, which references how Dr. Sturgis Bigelow, who came up with the sunken-relief concept, was named as the designer in newspapers. The letter reads, in part, "Anyhow, I shall have very little of either the credit or discredit. I had not thought it possible that they would play such a trick on me and it really looks much as if Dr. Bigelow was to blame."
Today, Dr. Bigelow is virtually forgotten, while coins such as the present Gem have granted Pratt considerable numismatic repute. The orange-gold surfaces offer uncommonly vibrant luster, and the portrait and eagle show solid definition overall. Occasion green and sun-yellow accents visit the peripheries, and the preservation and eye appeal are equally impressive. PCGS has graded 16 finer pieces (12/07).(Registry values: N4719)

Coin Index Numbers: (NGC ID# 28DE, PCGS# 8510, Greysheet# 9308)

Weight: 8.36 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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