1912 $10 PR66 PCGS....

Description

1912 Eagle, Matte PR66
Marvelous Sandblast Proof

1912 $10 PR66 PCGS. Lighter glints of yellow-gold -- most perceptible in the upper headdress feathers, around the right obverse rim, and moving downward toward the recessed field around the date -- contrast against the prevailing darker orange-gold tint of this delightful Premium Gem matte proof 1912 eagle. A similar contrasted effect is seen around the upper reverse legend, although it is less obvious there.

The mintage of the 1912 matte proof eagles was 83 pieces, putting it into the median range of the complete Indian Head series. Nonetheless, the second edition of David Akers' Handbook of 20th Century United States Gold Coins 1907-1933 places the 1912 eagle proof in a tie (with the 1915) for first place out of eight issues in overall rarity, and fourth of eight in high-grade rarity. The sandblast method used to finish these coins resulted in a fine-grained texture on the surfaces. Garrett and Guth write in their Gold Encyclopedia that "this sandblast effect appears under a microscope as millions of tiny facets," and they rank the issue fifth out of eight in Gem proof or higher grades.

Rankings aside, this is a marvelous example of the art of creating sandblast matte proofs. To our eyes, the slight color variation gives the surfaces an extra vibrancy and appeal. Each side is virtually devoid of defects, although a long perusal reveals a tiny tick on the rear of the eagle's head. The sharp strike and intricate definition this issue is justly noted for are on abundant display here. The last PR66 PCGS example we offered had the CAC green label and a quite similar appearance to this piece, lot 6835 in our Long Beach Signature (Heritage, 9/2013), realizing $94,000. Population: 5 in 66, 4 finer (10/14).
From The A. James Evans Collection, Part II.(Registry values: N10218)

Coin Index Numbers: (NGC ID# 26YD, PCGS# 8894, Greysheet# 9780)

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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