Bowers and Merena Auctions sent us the following press release for an upcoming auction:

Condition Census Proof 1915 Indian $10 Offered in Bowers and Merena Vegas Auction

(Irvine, California) – The finest known proof 1915 Indian Head Eagle gold coin, graded PCGS PF 66, will be offered by Bowers and Merena Auctions, the official auctioneer of the Las Vegas Coin, Stamp and Collectibles Show sponsored by the American Numismatic Association. The auction will be conducted at the Riviera Hotel and on the Internet on October 27, 2006.

“This certainly is a particularly important rarity: a condition census matte Proof 1915 $10 Indian. It’s the finest known representative of the issue ever seen by Professional Coin Grading Service; an amazing Proof 66,” said Steve Deeds, President of Bowers and Merena (www.BowersandMerena.com) of Irvine, California.

“The 1915 issue is also significant because it was the final year of proof Indian Eagle production. The miniscule mintage of just 75 pieces, absurdly low by today’s standards, was small even for the early 20th century. In other words, this 1915 Indian Eagle was rare the very day it was struck,” explained Deeds.

Noted gold coin researcher and author, David Akers, estimates that as few as 20 examples survive in various grades today.

“While the matte proof motif was not highly regarded in its day, these coins now are lauded by collectors and specialists for their dynamic beauty. This particular example is the epitome of aesthetic grace and allure. A close inspection fails to reveal even the meekest of abrasions, thus the lofty numeric grade. Augustus Saint-Gaudens’ design stands in exceptional relief on this coin, the recipient of a superb strike,” said Deeds.

This outstanding rarity, as well as the many other numismatic treasures in the October 27 Las Vegas auction, can be viewed online or in person during lot viewing in Vegas.
For additional information, call Bowers and Merena at (800) 458-4646 or visit www.BowersandMerena.com.