LOT Old Heritage Auctions  /  2008 February Long Beach Signature Coin #460  / 

2664

1908 $10 Motto PR66 NGC

Currency:USD Category:Coins & Paper Money / US Coins Start Price:42,500.00 USD Estimated At:1.00 - 1,000,000.00 USD
1908 $10 Motto PR66 NGC
<B>1908 $10 Motto PR66 NGC.</B></I> The matte proofing process had been used in England and France for several years prior its use on regular coinage in the United States. The U.S. Mint had some experience with the process on medals struck in the late 19th century. By 1908, Mint officials were ready to convert gold coinage to the new finish. The 1908 tens had a relatively high production with 116 coins struck. Traditional sources state that somewhere between two and three dozen pieces exist today. However, we believe that somewhere between 40 and 55 pieces are believed to exist today as recognizable proof strikings. Of the proof tens struck in this year, all but two have the distinctive dark finish this issue is known for, somewhere between a khaki and olive color. Widespread distribution among non-collectors caused many of the surviving proofs of this date to be impaired, showing nicks, scratches, or shiny spots. <BR> This is a splendid example with the usual coarse-grain finish. Intricately detailed, as one would expect on a proof. Prior to third-party grading, this sharpness of detail was one of the hallmarks of matte and Roman Finish proofs for collectors and dealers who had not seen enough of this style proof to easily distinguish it from a business strike. This was especially true of the Roman Finish coins. Close scrutiny with a loupe suggests an even higher grade because of the technical preservation and outstanding eye appeal on this piece. Census: 17 in 66, 11 finer (1/08).<BR><I>From The Southwest Collection.</B></I><BR><BR><B>Coin Engraver:</B> Augustus Saint-Gaudens<BR><BR><b>Shipping:</b> Coins & Currency (<a target="_blank" href="http://www.heritageauctions.com/common/shipping.php">view shipping information</a>)
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