1902 $10 PR(PCGS#8842)

The August 2013 Chicago ANA World's Fair of Money

Auctioneer

Stack's Bowers

Lot Number

4521

Grade

PR65

Price

34,075

Lot Description

Prized Gem Proof 1902 Eagle 1902 Liberty Eagle. Proof-65 (NGC). Struck in a slightly different format, the 1902 Liberty eagles display a more uniform reflectivity than seen in prior years, with less dramatic frosted devices, which are instead imparted with a semi-reflective surface. The fields are still highly polished in the dies. A total of 113 pieces were struck in Proof for the year, and this is one of the few Gems around today. Fully brilliant with no signs of toning. The vast open fields are remarkably well preserved -- as are the devices. There are probably no more than a dozen or so that are of this high quality today from this meager issue. Certain to delight any specialist who appreciates Gem quality gold Proof coins. Numismatic Reflections by Q. David Bowers This lovely Gem Proof is from the first full year of operation at the Third Philadelphia Mint. As a young teenager I recall visiting the building in the early 1950s when Mrs. Rae V. Biester was the director. The halls in many areas were decorated with artistic motifs. Unfortunately I did not get to see the vaults where untold millions of gold coins were stored until 1937 when they were melted. PCGS# 8842. NGC Census: 2; 4 finer (Proof-67 finest) within the Proof designation.