1868 $10 PR(PCGS#8808)

1868 $10 PR (PCGS#8808)

June 2026 Showcase Auction U.S. Coins

Lot Description: This is our first offering for this classic Proof gold issue since bringing to auction (as Bowers and Merena) the Bass specimen in October 1999. Not surprising given the elusiveness of the Proof 1868 eagle, which issue started as a numismatic rarity with a paltry mintage of 25 pieces. All of these were delivered on February 20 for distribution to contemporary collectors as part of the year's Proof sets. From this total John W. Dannreuther estimates that only 10 to 12 have survived in all grades, 10 of which are traced in the 2018 volume in his <em>United States Proof Coins</em> reference series, including the two coins impounded in the collections of the Smithsonian Institution and American Numismatic Society. The present example is not specifically identified in the Dannreuther census and appears to have avoided modern auction appearances until now.<p>Breathtakingly beautiful, both sides are temptingly close to full Gem preservation. The color is original in a deep golden-orange. A decided cameo finish goes unmentioned on the Generation 4.0 PCGS insert. Fully struck with an impressively smooth appearance during in-hand viewing, the technical quality and eye appeal are equally outstanding. Representing a fleeting opportunity for advanced bidders, this is one of our most significant offerings for Proof Liberty Head gold coinage in recent years and will see strong competition.