1918-S Lincoln Cent. MS-65 RD (PCGS).A splendid example of this conditionally challenging San Francisco Mint entry in the early Lincoln cent series. Handsome golden-orange color dominates the in hand appearance, the central reverse with a faint blush of copper-blue that is not readily evident at all viewing angles. Sharply struck throughout with a smooth, softly frosted texture that is sure to please. The 1918-S has a mintage of 34,680,000 pieces, heavily circulated survivors of which are plentiful due to widespread hoarding during the 1940s and 1950s. Extremely Fine and About Uncirculated survivors are scarce, the same being true of low end Mint State coins. This issue is rare in full Red Gem, due to a combination of inadequate striking quality and poor surface preservation. In fact, the typical 1918-S encountered in todays market exhibits blurry definition to the devices from having been struck from worn dies. That the present example is both overall sharply struck and expertly preserved in all regards defines it as a conditionally rare survivor of this challenging issue.
