1870 $3, DCAM PR(PCGS#98033)

Summer 2025 Global Showcase Auction U.S. Coins

Auctioneer

Stack's Bowers

Lot Number

3257

Grade

PR65DCAM

Price

216,000

Lot Description

Among the numerous highlights in this offering from the Floyd T. Starr Collection, this is simply one of the nicest and most significant Proof three-dollar gold pieces we have ever offered, irrespective of date. The coin displays deep, vivid orange-gold color that speaks volumes about its originality. Frosty in texture and smartly impressed, the razor sharp design elements contrast sharply with deeply mirrored fields. We note a subtle "orange peel" texture in the fields, along with some original planchet texture and as-made lines, but no significant handling marks or other blemishes challenge the solid Gem grade assigned by PCGS. The eye appeal is phenomenal.<p>Proof gold coinage from the United States Mint remained at paltry levels as the calendar advanced into the 1870s. The first issue of the decade, this Proof 1870 has a mintage of just 35 coins. They were delivered in two batches, and although only a single die pair was used, there are two reverse die states that neatly differentiate the striking periods. For the 25 coins delivered on February 3, the reverse is perfect with the inside leaf at lower left full and attached. The 10 Die State b coins delivered on June 1 are from a polished state of the reverse with the leaf attenuated and partially detached. The Starr specimen is a Die State b coin from the June 1 delivery.<p>John W. Dannreuther (2018) accounts for only 12 to 14 Proof 1870 $3s extant across the two die states, and the offered coin is one of the very finest known. Its only contender for CC#1 ranking is the Bass specimen, also certified Proof-65 Deep Cameo by PCGS, that most recently appeared in Heritage's May 2023 sale of the Harry W. Bass, Jr. Core Collection, Part III. The Bass coin had been off the market for 51 years, having been acquired in our (Stack') May 1974 Theodore Ullmer Collection sale. The Starr specimen is returning to market after an even longer period of time: 77 years. Once it sells, it may be many decades before either of these stunning Gem Deep Cameo Proofs are offered again.