1908 $5 PR67 NGC....

Description

1908 Half Eagle, PR67, Essentially Perfect Surfaces
A Stunning First-Year Example of the Matte Proof Process

1908 $5 PR67 NGC. This was the first year of issue for the European-inspired matte finish, a process that was not entirely new to the Mint but one that had previously been limited to medals. The matte finish took collectors by surprise, and it did not take long for them to express their dissatisfaction to Mint officials, who made a change in 1909 and 1910 to the so-called Roman Gold finish. Of the 167 proof half eagles that were struck in 1908, it is estimated that only 100 examples were actually distributed, the remainder being melted. Combining the data from both of the major services, one comes up with a total of 148 coins certified. We suspect there is a large number of resubmissions within the numbers certified, and believe probably only 50 or so individual examples are known today once resubmissions are backed out. Most are lower in grade than this piece, though. This is one of the finest examples known with only 10 other pieces so graded and one piece certified finer.
This piece has the typical khaki coloration common to 1908 proof gold and the coarser-grain finish always seen on this date. The striking details show definition that only a proof is capable of displaying with intricate detailing on all the design elements. Each side is devoid of any noticeable shiny spots or contact marks and the cheek of the Indian is smooth and unaffected by even the tiniest contact mark. This is essentially a perfectly preserved proof.(Registry values: N10218)

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.

View Certification Details from NGC