Offered is a Condition Census quality example of this scarcer, lower mintage Barber half dollar. The detail is exceptional for a circulation strike of this type with virtually all design elements razor sharp to full. The level of surface preservation is equally as impressive, both sides retaining full vibrancy to smooth and inviting satin luster. Predominantly brilliant, wisps of pale golden iridescence are scattered about to add appeal.In a series replete with unsung rarities, especially among high grade examples, the 1902-S stands out as one of the more underrated Barber half dollars. A mintage of 1,460,670 pieces is certainly small by 20th century U.S. Mint standards, but it is high enough within the context of the series to slip below the radar of less astute collectors. For the numismatist trained to look for mintage figures of fewer than 1 million coins to identify key date 20th century rarities, the Barber half dollar series certainly has much to offer. The 1901-S (847,044), 1904-S (553,038) and 1905-O (505,000) come readily to the fore, as do others, including the trio of Philadelphia Mint issues dated 1913 to 1915. The numismatist willing to delve below the surface will soon discover that the 1902-S is scarce to rare in all Mint State grades. Commercial use claimed most of the coins struck, as is the case for virtually all mintmarked Barber half dollar issues, and only a small number of pieces were either set aside at the time by numismatists or managed to escape circulation by chance. While any Mint State 1902-S half dollar represents a significant find, this Condition Census Superb Gem is particularly important and would do justice to even the finest cabinet.,,PCGS# 6494. NGC ID: 24MH.,NGC Census: 1; 0 finer at this service.,
