1908 $5 Indian MS(PCGS#8510)

1908 $5 Indian MS (PCGS#8510)

Spring 2025 Showcase Auction U.S. Coins

Description du lot: Highly attractive surfaces are bathed in a bold blend of frosty mint luster and vivid golden-rose color. Wisps of powder blue iridescence also flash into view as the coin rotates under a light, especially on the reverse. Full striking detail and exquisitely preserved surfaces further enhance the tremendous appeal of this premium quality Gem.<p>The Philadelphia Mint's premier issue of sculptor Bela Lyon Pratt's Indian half eagle, the 1908 was produced to the extent of 577,845 pieces for circulation, along with 167 Sand Blast Proofs for sale to collectors. As interesting as the coin may have been to certain inner circles at the Mint, the motif was roundly detested, and many negative letters were printed in <em>The Numismatist</em> concerning it. As a result, very few collectors saved such pieces. It was not until generations later that they became popular, by which time the vast majority of high grade pieces had long since disappeared. Today, the 1908 is the most often encountered Indian half eagle in Gem Mint State becomes considerably scarce in MS-65+ and above. The present example is a significant find worthy of the strongest bids.