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181
bid online at
www.goldbergcoins.com(800) 978-COIN (2646)
|
T
HE
F
INEST
1881 $5 L
IBERTY
C
AMEO
P
ROOF
Enlargement
1557
1881
.
PCGS graded Proof 67 Cameo PQ.
CAC APPROVED
. Deep orange hues can be seen covering the majority of the surfaces on both
sides of this extraordinary piece. A beautifully original coin that would be a fantastic addition to any collection, not only for its evident beauty,
but for the fantastic surfaces as well. Add to this the Cameo contrast and you have a determined winner here that will dominate any compe-
tition. Of the orignal mintage of 42 pieces it appears that no more than 15 to 20 exist today. This one is far and away the finest seen by PCGS
(in all designations), but is tied with one other seen by NGC. Clearly there was quite a high attrition rate on these early gold proofs than is
generally known. If you have been seeking a high end Superb Gem with Cameo contrast, your choices are quite limited, so bid accordingly if
you hope to capture this captivating coin.
Pop 1; none finer at PCGS. Tied for the finest example graded at both services
. (
PCGS
# 88476
)
Estimated Value ....................................................................................................................................................................$70,000-UP
C
AMEO
P
ROOF
1881 $10
Enlargement
1558
1881
.
PCGS graded Proof 64 Cameo.
CAC APPROVED
. A trace of vivid gold and copper toning can be seen on both sides attesting to
the wholesome originality of this monumental rarity. The orignal mintage of 40 pieces has been reduced by time, attrition and various eco-
nomic troubles to perhasp as few as 10 coins today. One exists in the Ultra Cameo designation seen by NGC and another ealry strike with this
contrast resides at the Smithsonian. However, the focus here was to find the most exquisite Cameo designated Proof of each date certified by
PCGS, and here is the perfect coin. It is by far the finest of two graded with the Cameo designation by PCGS, the other being a distant PR-61
Cameo. Notice the regal orange peel texture in the fields, and how the fields seem to fall away from the frosted devices when examined. Such
contrast is so compelling to view, it makes any numismatist desire to study the surfaces for hours. At the time these 1881 gold eagles were
struck, they represented a considerable sum of money, even for the wealthy, thus most were eventually spent as hard times came and went,
and no doubt the majority of these proofs were lost due to unfortunate circumstances of their initial owners. Today, those that do survive
have become far more valuable and desirable.
Pop 1; none finer at PCGS
. (
PCGS # 88821
)
Estimated Value ....................................................................................................................................................................$30,000-UP