1901-S Barber Half Dollar. MS-66 (PCGS).Enchanting silver white surfaces are untoned apart from the lightest iridescent sandy-gold tinting here and there around the peripheries. Striking quality is far above average for the type, the overall detail full and the eagles left should and talon with emerging to bold definition. Satin to semi-reflective in finish and exceptionally smooth, it is little wonder that this coin ranks among the finest certified survivor of this key date issue.<p>Among Barber half dollars minted from 1892 to 1915 the 1901-S is front row, center in terms of its elusive quality, especially in high grades. The mintage is modest with just 847,044 pieces produced -- only a dozen issues in this series have a more limited production run. The presently offered 1901-S Barber half dollar compares readily to Eliasberg: 2093 (April 1997, called MS-66 and offered uncertified), a specimen that was purchased at the San Francisco Mint in March 1901 by J.M. Clapp. That another example as beautiful as the Eliasberg piece survived through the past 111 years is a fine testimony to coin collectors everywhere, as the present coin was obviously well cared for on its long journey through the decades. We suspect many Barber half dollar specialists will queue up for an opportunity to bid on this beauty, but as in every auction, just one lucky bidder will take home the prize.
