Indian Cent
1888 Indian Cent. MS-66+ RD (PCGS).
A visually stunning example with rich terracotta and golden-tan coloration throughout. The surfaces are virtually untouched and impressive beneath a glass. Silky luster in the fields offers a subtle contrast against the more frosty texture of the devices. Scattered traces of dark patina emphasize the originality of this exceptional Gem. The 1888 is one of the scarcest circulation strike Indian cents of the 1887 to 1909 era, boasting the fifth lowest mintage behind the 1909-S, 1908-S, 1909, 1908 and 1894, in that order. With only 37.4 million struck, it amounted to only a third of the 108 million struck in 1907 at the crescendo of that era. Even so, the 1888 remains widely available in Mint State grades including Gem Red. Survivors become remarkably scarce in MS-66 RD and virtually unavailable in MS-67 RD. The present MS-66+ RD (PCGS) is tied with only two others at this grade level and only two rank finer.
PCGS# 2168. NGC ID: 228G.
PCGS Population; 3; 2 finer.
Estimate: $9500