1912 $5 PR66+ PCGS. JD-1, R.4....

Description

1912 Indian Head Five, PR66+
Sole Plus-Graded Example at PCGS
A Rarity This Fine

1912 $5 PR66+ PCGS. JD-1, R.4. Proof half eagle coinage in 1912 amounted to 144 pieces, similar to the number of pieces coined in 1911. In United States Proof Coins, Vol. IV: Gold, John Dannreuther estimates that only 80 to 100 pieces survive in all grades. PCGS provides a slightly lower survival estimate of 70 to 90 coins. PCGS and NGC combined report just 74 grading events in all grades. If no duplication is represented in the certified totals (unlikely) than the known survivorship for this issue is probably near the lower end of estimates.

Dannreuther notes that 1912 proof fives tend to have a darker finish than the 1911 issue. Variances in color from year to year are in part the result of different finenesses of sand used in the sandblast process. Coarser sand typically produced a darker appearance. There are even slight variances in color within a given year, and among 1912 half eagles, this is observed to some degree among the higher-end survivors.

The present coin is a remarkable high-end Premium Gem. It is the only Plus-graded 1912 proof at PCGS in any grade, and that service lists only six finer pieces. The design elements feature excellent sharpness, complemented by the texture sandblast finish. Neither side exhibits a single noteworthy mark. The color of this piece is a rich olive-gold hue that has tendencies toward a lighter peach-yellow shade of gold. The luster glistens beneath a light, further accenting the well-rendered devices. The quality of strike and excellence of preservation earn this coin high marks, placing it near the Condition Census for the issue. Population: 15 in 66, 6 finer (6/20).(Registry values: N7079)

Coin Index Numbers: (NGC ID# 28E6, PCGS# 8543, Greysheet# 9336)

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.

View Certification Details from PCGS