NEWP (Dec. Grading Result): 1914 (Year 3) Fatman 50 Cents - PCGS AU 55

anthonythecoinman

CHINA (Republic) | 1914 (Year 3) Fatman 50 Cents - PCGS AU 55 - Tientsin Mint | Choice and Lustrous, Sharp Strike (No Weakness), Usual Handling Marks - From an American Collection

Hi everyone! Happy Thursday and one last post in the AM!

Tonight, I wanted to share a series of recent grading results. I apologize for the delays as it has been busy recently. Without that much of an introduction, this is the ever popular 50 Cents Fatman type, which was made at the Central Mint in Tientsin. “Fatman” here refers to Mr. Yuan Shikai, who is depicted on the obverse of this rather simple design. Also, in terms of collectible varieties, there are rarer varieties from the Wuchang Mint of Hupeh and the ever popular Fukien Mint as well! Nevertheless, this piece is dated the Year 3 of the Republic which is, of course, 1914 on the Gregorian calendar.

This piece features the bust of Yuan Shikai (袁世凯) and sees his left facing portrait with his usual epaulets and big head, hence the name of ”大頭“ in Chinese. The denomination is on the reverse.

This piece, new to market, has been freshly sent in for grading by PCGS and just graded today at an AU 55. I am quite happy to have a problem free or bluntly speaking, straight graded, popular silver minor! These Fatman 50 Cents are collectible and are often more scarce and desirable than their 1 Dollar (Yuan) counterparts.

this piece features strong strike on both sides, especially the reverse central ”中圓“ characters, which often show weakness. The epaulets and hair details are crisp. What I really love about this piece, which is rather unevenly toned, is the luster. The luster really is strong and original, and there is, as usual for the grade, handling or chatter marks that give it the ”AU“ feel. There are no nicks on the rim of the coin (i.e., rim dings) and the fields and the denticles are sharply struck.

There is cartwheel luster and the coin does pop in hand, underscoring the marks from slight circulation as well as the classic design features!

Can’t wait for what is in store as we close the year off! Cheers! Will try to a recap when I get more grading stuff back!

References: Lin and Ma 64, Kann 655; Krause Y 328, WS-0175-1.