10441

1915-S $50 Panama-Pacific 50 Dollar Octagonal MS6

Currency:USD Category:Coins & Paper Money / US Coins Start Price:38,750.00 USD Estimated At:1.00 - 1,000,000.00 USD
1915-S $50 Panama-Pacific 50 Dollar Octagonal MS6
<B>1915-S<$50> Panama-Pacific 50 Dollar Octagonal MS63 PCGS.</B></I> A well struck, well preserved example of this very popular issue. Athena's face and helmet show no unsightly nicks or bumps to distract the eye, and the entire coin is awash in mint luster. Close examination will note some very minor lines, visible with a strong glass, and these are present on the vast majority of this issue. Recall that most of the Panama-Pacific Exposition coinage was sold to non coin collectors, with time and attrition taking a toll on these heavy coins. Many show rim bumps from being dropped or mishandled in some fashion, and locating a specimen in this grade can be a challenge. This coin is an excellent specimen for the grade and worthy of an advanced collection.<BR>The delightful designs include Athena on the obverse, eight dolphins tucked into the octagonal corners of the obverse and reverse, symbolizing the opening of the Panama Canal, the owl of wisdom and watchfulness on the reverse. The Canal greatly increased efficiency in shipping by eliminating the need to go around South America through the dangerous Straits of Magellan, which saved days at sea for any voyage from the Atlantic to the Pacific Ocean. San Francisco benefited greatly from the new canal, as its deep water bay allowed for many ships to be in port at the same time for loading and unloading of goods, which could then make a much quicker passage back to the East Coast or Europe. One of the most popular of all Commemorative issues, deservedly so, for the allegorical die work is exceptional and this is one of the few official $50 gold coins ever struck by the United States mints.