Kansu. Republic Yuan Shih-kai Dollar Year 3 (1914) AU53 NGC, Lanchow mint, KM-Y407, L&M-617, Kann-759. With characters "Kan Su" to either side of the bust. Of praiseworthy condition for this rare and conditionally elusive type, this "Kansu" dollar exhibits only light rub to Yuan Shih-kai's bust and the other highpoints of the raised design. An almost defining characteristic for the type, lightness of strike is evident in the reverse wreath design and is seen in the slight softness of the other devices as well, though the surfaces overall confirm great care in preservation since the coin was extracted from circulation. Unlike many other specimens that entered exchange, the piece retains a strong sheen of underlying luster behind a decades-old silver patina, resulting in a verdict that its history in trade must have been brief indeed. Consequently, the coin preserves a sense of proximity to Mint State condition that escapes many other specimens in this certified grade range. In summary, a superb specimen for the issue, and one which we can easily count among the finest of those that we have seen to date.

HID09801242017

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