1911-D Indian Half Eagle. MS-61 (PCGS).

Blended honey-gold and soft pinkish-rose patina is seen on both sides of this Mint State half eagle. Frosty surfaces are suitably lustrous for the assigned grade with a bold to sharp strike to most design elements. The D mintmark is a bit soft overall, yet readily discernible. Only 72,500 half eagles were struck at the Denver Mint in 1911, at a time when numismatists were still in the early years of appreciating mintmarked coinage. Many collectors opted for Proof examples of a particular year. The 1911-D coins were largely ignored when they entered commercial channels, and unlike many of the other larger denomination gold coins at the time, this issue did not find its way to bags in overseas banks. Rather, based on the number of circulated examples that survive, a significant portion saw everyday use, and were further reduced in quantity by the large scale Treasury melts of the late 1930s. Second only to the 1909-O in the Indian half eagle series in terms of rarity and popularity, the 1911-D has long since gained appreciation as the key issue that it is. While moderately available at the higher circulated preservation levels, in Mint State the issue becomes a remarkable condition rarity. Expect spirited bidding when this significant Indian half eagle crosses the block.

PCGS# 8521. NGC ID: 28DR.

From the Fairmont Collection.

Estimate: $ 7000