1908 $5 PR66 PCGS. CAC....

Description

1908 Indian Half Eagle, PR66
Rare Sandblast Proof
CAC Endorsed

1908 $5 PR66 PCGS. CAC. The innovative, incuse Indian design by Bela Lyon Pratt was introduced on the quarter eagle and half eagle in 1908. The Philadelphia Mint found it impossible to polish the dies for the new designs to produce the old brilliant finish used on proofs of earlier years, so a new sandblast finish was adopted. The coins were struck from specially prepared dies and subjected to sandblasting with a coarse grain of sand, while being held with a glove. The sandblast finish gave the coins an artistic medallic appearance, but contemporary collectors preferred the old brilliant proofs and orders for proof sets were anemic. Ordinarily, the adoption of a new design would increase orders because of the novelty value. Accordingly, the Mint produced 500 examples of the new gold proofs in 1908, but only 167 proof quarter eagles were distributed. The remaining coins went unsold and were melted after the close of the year. Only 80 to 100 examples survive today in all grades. Of course, present-day numismatists appreciate the sandblast proofs for their artistic quality and elusive nature. They are avidly sought by collectors in today's market.

The present coin is a delightful Premium Gem, with razor-sharp definition on all design elements. Fine detail is evident on the lower headdress feathers and the eagle's shoulder. The dark orange-gold surfaces are free of mentionable distractions and the tremendous quality and eye appeal are attested by the CAC sticker. This coin is part of a complete 1908 proof set, with the other coins offered in neighboring lots in the catalog. Population: 19 in 66 (1 in 66+), 3 finer. CAC: 7 in 66, 2 finer (1/20).
From The Stunning 1908 Proof Set. (Registry values: N7079)

Coin Index Numbers: (NGC ID# 28E3, PCGS# 8539, GSID# 9332)

Metal: 90% Gold, 10% Copper
Weight: 8.36 grams
AGW: 0.24188oz
Mintage: 167

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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