Interesting. I checked the NGC Verify to see If it was in the database and it checked out. Top pop at MS68 Pop - 1
Try sending in a Morgan that’s been antiqued and see what you get back!!!!!! The NGC has hit a new low Reed
The term “Antiqued” does not necessarily mean that medal was conditioned after striking. The planchet could have been treated prior to striking. Take for instance the “Bronzed” or ”Gilt” pieces issued by the Soho Mint under George III. The planchets were treated prior to striking and yet they have a different finish.
NGC has a long history of grading items produced using different metals. Here is an example of a white metal CWT Store Card.
And some are intentionally antiqued - by the mint - after striking and sold as collectors items. Which is what I suspect that one is. As to the OP's question regarding the "when"; prior to 2001 NGC refused to slab any coin that was minted after 1964. It was only in 2001, and later, they would slab coins minted after that date. And while I can't quote specific years for when it started, NGC and PCGS both began slabbing certain coins, medals, and various other collector items that they previously did not slab. Seems like every few years one or both begin slabbing something they didn't used to slab.
The term "antiqued" has several meanings. One of which is made to look old. Another definition is of or belonging to the past; not modern.
Found a 1997 that looks the same and also stumbled upon a 2019 set. https://www.govmint.com/japan-2019-gld-3o-anniv-enthrone-pf-ogp-w-7pc-set Safe to say it's supposed to be "Antiqued".
Not if the mint does it and that is how it is supposed to be. There are numerous world collector coins made that way
