ECUADOR. 8 Escudos, 1843-QUITO MV. Quito Mint. NGC AU-58. KM-23.2; Onza-1762 ("rara"). Three-year type with engravers initial S sideways on back drape of bust. Perhaps the finest seen, and with claims to the Mint State tier, the surfaces on this coin remain fresh, with fields that display full luster and a slightly pebbled texture. The designs also appear gratifyingly sharp, with full central detail and legends that are similarly complete and are accented with pale rosy coloration that adds to the character. Truly, only a slight dullness on Libertys cheek, which is often times termed "cabinet friction", prevents a higher designation, with the only other certified Mint State example of this date weve seen (a MS-62 that we sold in 2011) displaying as great or greater contrast on the cheek. That said, after considering its overall wholesomeness, it seems this piece is every bit deserving of the intense attention that it will undoubtedly receive from the elite type connoisseur. From the Oro del Nuevo Mundo Collection.
