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 with a razor-sharp strike on both sides 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 Barber half dollars of 1892 to 1915 saw extensive commercial use and the typical survivor is a well worn coin in AG, Good or VG. With a 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 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!
