A beautifully toned example with mottled reddish-apricot and cobalt blue patina that is particularly impressive on the reverse. The surfaces are satin to semi-reflective in finish with considerable vibrancy evident as the coin dip into a light. Lightly struck around the peripheries, as often seen in examples of this challenging early U.S. Mint type, yet appreciably bolder over the focal features. The date is sharp.For many years the collecting of early dimes was a rather obscure pursuit, with no standard reference on the subject at all except for those who cared to review the offerings in the F.C.C. Boyd Collection sold by Numismatic Gallery in 1946 under the pretentious title of "The Worlds Greatest Collection" (the collection was indeed great but it lacked most American rarities, a lot of mintmarks, and more). That changed when a fine reference book was issued a generation ago by a group of five researchers, and when the John Reich Collectors Society was formed. Today, early dimes are in the forefront of interest and activity. The present coin will play to a wide audience. The overall quality is outstanding for both the type and issue, making this a "must have" coin for the advanced collector.Incorrectly attributed on the PCGS insert as an example of the Small 8 <em>Guide Book</em> variety.,,PCGS# 4466. NGC ID: 236E.,PCGS Population: 2; 9 finer (MS-66 finest).,
