1909/8 $20 FS-301 MS66 PCGS....

Description

1909/8 Saint-Gaudens Twenty, MS66
Sole Series Overdate
Ex: Phillip H. Morse

1909/8 $20 FS-301 MS66 PCGS. Ex: Simpson. The 1909/8 is the only Saint-Gaudens overdate in the series, and it is generally seen through the lower Mint State grades. The situation changes quite drastically in the better Uncirculated grades. In MS66, the level of preservation of the example offered in this lot, only 13 pieces have been seen by PCGS and NGC combined, and none are numerically finer. Moreover, just one other Premium Gem has appeared in our auctions with the past 10 years. No finer pieces are known.

This is the celebrated Phillip H. Morse specimen, which has long been considered one of the finest examples known. It yields the characteristic greenish-gold patina intermixed with orange-gold over both obverse and reverse. The frosty surfaces display vibrant luster, imparting a good deal of "flash" to the coin, something that is not typical of this issue. The design elements exhibit a better-than-average strike, further enhancing the coin's fantastic eye appeal. Typically, 1909/8 double eagles show weakness on the upper part of Liberty, along with general flatness on the obverse. However, on this specimen, sharp definition is apparent throughout. For accuracy we mention a few very trivial contact marks on Liberty's legs that are virtually invisible to the unaided eye. The piece is identifiable by a minute mark on Liberty's left breast and on the left forearm.

This coin will please even the most particular collector of Saint-Gaudens twenties. One does not often encounter a coin of this caliber; it will make an outstanding addition to a high-grade Saint-Gaudens collection. Population: 6 in 66 (1 in 66+), 0 finer (7/22).
Ex: The Phillip H. Morse Collection of Saint-Gaudens Coinage (Heritage, 11/2005), lot 6565.

Coin Index Numbers: (NGC ID# 26FC, Variety PCGS# 145740, Base PCGS# 9151, GSID# 374011)

Metal: 90% Gold, 10% Copper
Weight: 33.44 grams
AGW: 0.9675oz
Mintage: 161,282

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 all of [Important Selections from The Bob R. Simpson Collection, Part IX ]

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