Watch List notes:

China (People's Republic), gold 200 yuan (1/2 oz) Panda, 2002, mirrored bamboo (Shanghai mint), NGC MS 69 ("top pop"). KM-1459; PAN-350A. One of only four at this top grade in the current NGC census specifically for this variety, with only ten higher at MS 70 for all varieties (including unspecified). Anthony: "this coin can be a challenge to find." All the MS gold of 2002 are scarce, and 2002 is a key year in general (in fact the only year to repeat the design from the previous year, albeit with a new edge-reeding that is diagonal instead of vertical). The "mirrored bamboo" versions, referring to branch tips at the rim, are accompanied by a lower neckline on the panda and indicate Shanghai mint; the "frosted bamboo" versions come from the Shenzen mint. Mintage for both mints: 100,000 planned; 28,514 actual; estimated extant (both varieties)