1909 $5 PR66+ PCGS. CAC....

Description

1909 Indian Half Eagle, PR66+
Only 78 Examples Struck
One Finer Coin at PCGS

1909 $5 PR66+ PCGS. CAC. After the first year of the matte finish proved so unpopular with collectors, the Mint switched to what we know today as the "Roman Finish" style of proofing for gold coins. This method did not involve treating the planchets, as with the previous matte finish. Rather, proofs were struck on unprepared planchets. The striking pressure imparted a natural brightness to the limited production runs of proof gold. In the case of the 1909 only 78 proofs were struck, and of that number it is estimated that perhaps 30 or so pieces are extant today in all grades.

The surfaces are bright and show a surprising green-gold tint, rather than expected yellow-gold. Just around the margins on each side there is a light, but still noticeable accent of reddish patina. All design elements show razor-sharp definition, as expected of a proof. The surfaces are unmarked as far as we can see, with one exception: A shallow, irregularly shaped planchet flake is seen in the reverse field just above the eagle's tail feathers. This identifier greatly simplifies tracing the pedigree of this important coin. A few finer pieces are known, but not many. Numismatists have slowly begun to realize the absolute rarity of this two-year proofing process and the knowledgeable collector will bid accordingly. Population: 8 in 66 (5 in 66+), 1 finer (10/15).
Ex: John H. Clapp Collection, directly from the Mint, December 1909; Louis E. Eliasberg, Sr.; The United States Gold Coin Collection (Bowers and Ruddy, 10/1982), lot 621; Raj Collection (Stack's, 8/2011), lot 7697, Summer FUN Signature (Heritage, 7/2012), lot 4974.
From The Leon Hendrickson Collection.(Registry values: N7079)

Coin Index Numbers: (NGC ID# 25ZS, PCGS# 8540, Greysheet# 9333)

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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