An attractive totally original Choice AU example of this better date, which becomes a true Key at grades above EF. Far more rare in AU grades than in Unc. PCGS has certified only 60 between AU-50 and 58, NGC just 22, in 38 years, versus over 1,500 combined in Unc grades! To put it in perspective, PCGS alone had certified 50 coins in MS-66, the same as all the AU grades. Also consider this, there has not been a major auction appearance of a PCGS AU-55 since 2009 - and Zero NGC coins apparently. One PCGS AU-55 sold on ebay in 2021, and it was a POS with no apparent luster, dull surfaces and what I would call maybe XF-45 by old school grading. Only 6 in AU-55 at NGC, and I am willing to bet the only CAC coin. Total CAC Pop in AU-55 is three (when listed), with none in the new CACG holder. Per their policy this is guaranteed to cross to the new holder at the same grade if submitted. Better yet this is very well struck for a date that commonly comes mushy, with full star radials, 95% of the wreath detail and without the general “rounded” mushy look to the relief. A comparison to the limited number of certified AU-53 to 58 specimens imaged on PCGS Coin Facts will prove this out. The Obverse retains about 90% of the original luster, the Reverse a bit less - frankly I was a touch surprised that this did not GOLD CAC. This might be due to the general bias I detect at CAC for NGC coins (just my opinion), or the toning. If “conserved” (i. e. dipped out, heaven forbid), this stands a better than even chance at regrading AU-58 - and probably CAC as well. The color is typical of original high end AU coins, which tend to have a similar reddish-gray toning, most likely due to the nature of the specific alloy mix used to make planchets. My images do not do this coin true justice, as this generation of NGC holder tends to “spoof” my camera; the NGC Cert verification images are even worse. Whatever - if you know this series and have been looking for a really nice example, this should work for you. It will not come cheap however, as I cannot purchase coins like this at a “bargain” price, nor am I in a flaming hurry to see this coin go. This is the first 1912-S Nickel anywhere this nice that I have owned in 30+ years. This will require Registered Mail shipping (slower delivery time) as I am unwilling to risk any chance at this going astray.

NGC 4704932-034