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1915-S Panama-Pacific Gold $50 Round NGC MS65

Currency:USD Category:Coins & Paper Money / US Coins Start Price:50,000.00 USD Estimated At:100,000.00 - 110,000.00 USD
1915-S Panama-Pacific Gold $50 Round NGC MS65
1915-S Panama-Pacific Gold $50 Round. NGC graded MS-65. Lovely golden toning. Clean as a whistle, as one might expect given the Gem MS65 grade; however, what really sets this coin apart from others is its intense satin-smooth luster, luster that shimmers over each side untouched by blemishes or toning spots. Here, as with the associated MS65 Octagonal $50 from the same consignor, we are impressed by the coin's superb, convincing design detail in all areas of this important coin. Not even the slightest amount of flatness occurs on the key features!

A series of five coins was released for the occasion, including complete sets mounted in metal frames or leather cases sold for $200. Many sales were made to banks and other novices; for this reason, high grade examples, especially of the two $50 gold denominations, are a challenge to find. The larger the denomination, the harder to locate. Some were also carried as souvenir pieces, sadly. When all was said and done, only 483 Round $50 gold pieces were sold. It can be assumed (though no separate accounts were kept in this regard) that numerous specimens in the hands of the public were melted after the federal government nationalized America's gold coins in 1933. We estimate there are 200 or so of the round $50 pieces left in existence.

Today the five different commemoratives of the Panama-Pacific International Exposition stand as the high-water mark among American coins. The $50 round is unique in U.S. federal coinage, both as to denomination at the time ($50) and dimensions (two and one-half ounces of 900 Fine gold). The artistry was by Robert Aitken, noted sculptor and coin designer whose handiwork presents Minerva, goddess of the harvest, wearing a Corinthian plumed helmet. Aitken used a more local device for his reverse, a "wise" owl perched upon a pine branch. Curiously, the wisdom of owls is much overrated. According to the specialists who trained and worked the various owls in the Harry Potter movies, owls are little more than flying sharks -- sophisticated eating machines with only enough brains to get along with. But that is neither here nor there, since Minerva's owl on this lovely specimen is golden and beautiful creating one of the all-time favorite U.S. commemorative gold pieces. A resplendent way to preserve the occasion is with this well struck MS65 Gem Round $50 gold coin. Pop 44; 24 finer, 2 in 65 Star, 18 in 66, 4 in 67.
Estimated Value $100,000 - 110,000.