1915-S Panama-Pacific Exposition $50. Octagonal. EF Details--Repaired (PCGS). This key date rarity in the United States Mints classic commemorative gold series enjoys strong collector demand at all levels of preservation. The present example features an unusual amount of wear for a type that is typically offered in Mint State preservation, and we suspect that bidders are evaluating a former jewelry piece here. Warmly patinated rose-orange surfaces are glossy in texture with wispy hairlines that point to a light polishing. Additionally, there is evidence of tooling in the left obverse field as well as in the reverse field around the owl. There are few sizeable marks, however, and the in hand appearance is fairly smooth overall. A curious piece that has a charm all its own, and a more affordable example from a net mintage of just 645 coins for the Panama-Pacific Exposition $50 in octagonal format. From the E. Horatio Morgan Collection. Earlier from Superiors Buddy Ebsen Collection Sale, May-June 1987, lot 3121. Lot tag included.
