1899 $10, DCAM PR(PCGS#98839)

Summer 2025 Global Showcase Auction U.S. Coins

Auctioneer

Stack's Bowers

Lot Number

3351

Grade

PR64DCAM

Price

84,000

Lot Description

An exceptional Proof specimen of both the issue and the type, this vivid medium golden yellow near-Gem is fully struck with strong cameo contrast. There is nary a distracting mark or other blemish in evidence, and the eye appeal is strong in all regards. As the 19th century drew to a close, the mintage for Proof $10 eagles of this year came in at 86 pieces. From that group it appears that only 35 to 40 are around today (per John W. Dannreuther, 2018), and the collector who desires an example will have to face strong competition from other advanced numismatists. If Deep Cameo contrast is desired then it could certainly take a lot longer to secure the right coin, unless one approaches this fleeting offering with a sound and aggressive bidding strategy.<p>Events of 1899 included the final withdrawal of Spain from a few islands in the Western Hemisphere, such as Cuba, which became an independent country on January 1st; America further agreed to leave its destiny to its own people despite some troubles on the USS <em>Maine</em> which settled at the bottom of Havana Harbor after being sent to defend American interests during the turnover from Spain to the Cubans. Precisely what happened to the <em>Maine</em> was a cause for several investigations, possibly there was an internal explosion, perhaps the doomed ship struck a mine. Regardless, American interests in the region were aroused by this tragedy.<p>When holding this prized United States eagle in your hand, think about that event that nearly shook the world toward another war. Furthermore, knowing with the hindsight of history, how that region continues to be a major part of our political scene.