1902-O Barber Half Dollar. MS-66 (NGC).
A noteworthy strike and condition rarity among New Orleans Mint Barber half dollars, this 1902-O stands tall among the highlights in the Larry H. Miller set. Striking detail is razor sharp to full throughout the design, a particularly significant attribute given David Lawrence's (1991) observation: "[The 1902-O is] consistently one of the poorest struck coins in the series. Well struck coins are worth a premium and very few, if any, exist in MS." The author also notes that, "Luster seems to be below average as a rule," yet once again we note the premium quality nature of this coin, this time due to the full, lively mint frost that blankets both sides. Essentially brilliant with just some very subtle silver-gray patina, and free of blemishes, one would be hard pressed to find a more attractive and desirable example in today's market.
PCGS# 6493. NGC ID: 24MG.
NGC Census: 5; just 2 are finer (both are MS-67).