1739-A Sou Marque. Paris Mint. Vlack-17. Rarity-1. First Semester. AU-58 (PCGS).40.8 grains. Exceptional quality for the type, this piece sports a crisp, virtually full strike and essentially complete silvering. Described by Syd Martin, in fact, as the strongest, best strike Ive seen on any sou marque. Lustrous and satiny, the surfaces exhibit tinges of antique gold and powder blue to dominant pearl-gray patina. A few very minor planchet striations are as made and easily overlooked, especially in light of the overall superior quality of this piece. Nearly in the Mint State category, and sure to sell for a strong premium to either an advanced specialist in this series or a collector looking for a single outstanding sou marque as a type coin.PCGS# 158671.From the Sydney F. Martin Collection. Earlier ex American Heritage Minting, July 21, 2002.
