The Denver Mint’s initial contribution to the Indian half eagle series amounted to 148,000 pieces during the series’ inaugural year. While 1908 half eagles from the Philadelphia Mint wer saved in significant numbers as a first year issue, the 1908-D was largely overlooked by the public, and many fewer Mint State examples survive today.
While a few small hoards of Uncirculated 1908-D half eagles have surfaced over the years, virtually none of them contained any coins that would grade finer than MS-63 by today’s standards. The only exception is the Virgil Brand hoard, which included a small number of examples grading MS-64 or finer.
The current piece offers a provenance as fine or finer than the Virgil Brand coins. Acquired directly from the Denver Mint in 1908, this example hails from our (Bowers and Merena’s) sale of the legendary Norweb Collection. It was also once part of the impressive collection assembled by gold specialist Jim O’Neal. This Condition Census Gem is one of the finest and most exciting 1908-D half eagles in existence.
Remaining exceptionally well preserved, this important condition rarity would fit right into the finest cabinet of 20th century gold. Bold to sharp definition is seen throughout the design. Both sides also possess beautiful color in a display of vivid tangerine hues. Satin to softly frosted luster blankets surfaces that are remarkably smooth for this issue. The quality and eye appeal are outstanding throughout!
This jewel is pedigreed to the Harbor View Collection, and we anticipate that only strong bids will be competitive when bidding opens in our October 2015 Rarities Auction. Please visit StacksBowers.com or call us at 1-800-458-4646 for more information.
