File:Cyprus H3041-32179i.jpg

This specimen was lot 32179 in Heritage sale 3041 (Chicago, August 2015), where it sold for $11,162.50. The catalog description^[1] noted, "Cyprus, British Colony - George VI Five-Coin Proof Set 1938, 1/2 Piastre PR65 NGC, Piastre PR65 NGC, 4-1/2 Piastres PR65 NGC, 9 Piastres PR66 NGC, 18 Piastres PR66 Cameo NGC. KM-PS7. This beautifully matched set features two copper-nickel and three silver denominations. Starting with the smallest coin, the 1/ 2 Piastre exhibits glossy, champagne surfaces with just a bit of marine-blue tone surrounding the legends. The Piastre, similar to its smaller counterpart, presents a striated pattern of sky-blue luster across the obverse and a evenly-toned golden reverse. With the first silver denomination, the 4-1/2 Piastres, we see a bit of russet mottling with hints of blue and lilac interspersed atop silvery-gray surfaces. The two remaining denominations--the 9 Piastres and 18 Piastres--present an equal amount of dappled patina in luminous amber and electric-blue that lightly dot the centers and more heavily coat the peripheries. In researching the population reports of these five coins, their excellence is further confirmed, as only a handful of like-graded pieces exist at present time. Furthermore, the 18 Piastres is currently the only certified example in a Proof Cameo designation by NGC. Thus it follows that while each individual piece is superior in both technical quality and visual allure, the true power of these pieces ultimately lies in their collection as a whole."