1900 Lafayette Silver Dollar. MS-65 (PCGS).

Exceptionally smooth surfaces on both sides, this impressive Gem also exhibits pleasingly original toning with mottled rose-russet iridescence over a base of warmer pearl gray. Authorized by the Act of March 3, 1899, this silver dollar commemorates the construction of a monument to General Lafayette erected at the 1900 Paris Exposition. Although the Philadelphia Mint struck 50,000 pieces for distribution, the maximum allowed by Congress, only 36,000 coins were eventually sold and the remaining 14,000 examples were melted. An additional 26 pieces were prepared for Assay purposes. Today, the Lafayette dollar is regarded as one of the more conditionally challenging types in the classic commemorative series. Many survivors are worn and/or impaired, while among Mint State coins noticeable abrasions to Washington's cheek and in the reverse field keep most examples at lower grades through MS-64. This uncommonly well preserved Gem is sure to have no difficulty finding its way into a high quality set.

PCGS# 9222. NGC ID: BYKW.

From our August 2018 ANA sale, lot 3700.

Estimate: $5300