361

1916 1C PR66 Red NGC. The 1916 is the most conditional

Currency:USD Category:Coins & Paper Money Start Price:9,500.00 USD Estimated At:1.00 - 1,000,000.00 USD
1916 1C PR66 Red NGC. The 1916 is the most conditional
<B>1916 1C PR66 Red NGC.</B></I> The 1916 is the most conditionally challenging date in the matte proof Lincoln Cent series. The absolute rarity of the 1916 is equal to that of the lower mintage 1909 VDB. This is a coin that truly "carries its own credentials." It is recognizable at arm's length as a matte proof and really needs no certification. It is also obviously a well preserved example as it shows no apparent contact marks or carbon spots on either side. The granular surfaces have an overlay of satiny mint luster and show unusually bright coloration. We call attention to this because these proofs were shipped from the Mint in sulfur-laden paper envelopes and the coins toned very quickly as a result, leading one to the conclusion that this piece must have been taken from the Mint envelope as soon as it was received in the mail. Both sides are bathed in reddish-orange shades. Very rare in this condition. The strike is crisp in all areas. An out-of-the-way toning spot at 7 o'clock on the obverse rim should help trace the pedigree of this important Lincoln Cent. Census: 2 in 66, 1 finer (1/06).