Fr. 281. 1899 $5 Silver Certificate. PMG Gem Uncirculated 65 EPQ.Without a doubt one of the most recognizable designs of the period. The $5 Silver Certificates issued under the Series of 1899 owes its oft-applied nickname to the stone-faced depiction of Running Antelope who is erroneously depicted wearing a Pawnee headdress as the Sioux headdress seen in the original photo adapted for the engraving was allegedly too tall. Despite this engraved faux pas, the distinctiveness of Running Antelopes portrait has cemented this design as a favorite of collectors owing to the inevitable associations prompted by the romanticism and allure of the western frontier and popular depictions of Native Americans. Examples of this design are rarely found near the highest ends of the grading spectrum and most examples are often seen with evidence of circulation and impairments. From subtle issues such as pinholes seen in the company of even circulation or more overt issues such as splits or even missing pieces that often manifest at lower grades; this example is indeed the exception. Assigned a grade of Gem Uncirculated 65 EPQ by PMG, the qualities of this specimen are hard to overlook. Crisp margins are part of the overall picture while bold color is manifested by both the Treasury overprint and the engraved elements of the design. The all-important portrait of Running Antelope is perhaps the most distinctive element and brought to uncommon detail. Elements of the wrongly-placed Pawnee headdress are apparent from plumage to individual beads and serve to lend a sense of gravitas and detail to his solemn portrait which when held in consideration are magnified by the grade assigned by PMG. Together these small albeit important distinctions make this a real opportunity for the collector seeking to acquire an exceptional example of this evocative design for themselves.
