1909 $5 PR(PCGS#8540)

February 2026 Showcase Auction - The James A. Stack, Sr. Collection Part II

Auctioneer

Stack's Bowers

Lot Number

23026

Grade

PR64

Price

43,200

Lot Description

This is a lovely example of the brief and rare Satin Proof Indian half eagle type. Vivid golden-honey color is seen on both sides along with a lively satin texture that is exceptionally well composed overall. The strike detail is full throughout, and the eye appeal is extraordinary.<p>1909 was the second year of Proof Indian half eagle production with the first year 1908 Proofs featuring a much darker sandblast finish that proved unpopular with contemporary collectors. The brighter Satin Proof 1909 was an improvement in the eyes of some, but even so sales were disappointing and only 78 of the 230 coins struck were distributed. Even some of those specimens that were fortunate to escape destruction through melting in the Mint were not preserved by collectors and, today, only 50 to 60 individual specimens are believed extant (per John W. Dannreuther, 2018). This superior Choice specimen from the Stack Collection is highly recommended for inclusion in another advanced cabinet.