1897-S Barber Half Dollar. MS-66 (PCGS). CAC.An extraordinary premium Gem from an issue that can be elusive even in circulated grades. This is a lovely coin in all regards, both sides with a razor sharp strike and bountiful satin to softly frosted luster. The surfaces are smooth and attractive beneath a dusting of iridescent pinkish-silver and olive-gray patina. As a rule, the New Orleans and San Francisco mint issues in the Barber half dollar series of 1892 to 1915 saw extensive commercial use since their respective year of issue, the typical survivor in numismatic hands a well worn coin in AG, Good or VG. With a limited mintage of 933,900 pieces, the 1897-S is scarcer than most issues in this group, even in worn condition. In Mint State the 1897-S is nothing short of rare, the few coins extant at that level likely set aside by contemporary numismatists. Exceptionally well preserved with eye appeal to spare, this upper end MS-66 is among the finest certified and would do justice to even the most advanced cabinet. Outstanding!
