France. 1719-A Sol. Paris Mint. Gadoury-276. MS-65 BN (PCGS). 170.0 grains. An exceptional Gem quality specimen of this elusive type, with abundant mint color remaining around the obverse periphery, framing choice and lustrous chocolate brown surfaces. The mint color pervades the fields and the reverse to a lesser extent, but the eye appeal and technical quality are consistent throughout. Some striking softness at the base of the obverse and top of the reverse reveals the inherent planchet texture, which creates some granularity at the date and the upper reverse rim. Otherwise well struck and problem free, a survivor of the Buste Enfantin type that would be extremely challenging to upgrade. This was the best one Syd ever encountered. PCGS# 620250. From the Sydney F. Martin Collection. Earlier ex American Heritage Minting, February 2006.
