1868 $3 MS(PCGS#7989)

Summer 2025 Global Showcase Auction U.S. Coins

Auctioneer

Stack's Bowers

Lot Number

3255

Grade

MS62

Price

8,400

Lot Description

Acquired by Mr. Starr from Stack's August 1941 sale as a "Brilliant proof," the die diagnostics confirm that this coin is a circulation strike. Among other diagnostics for the Proof 1868 $3 John W. Dannreuther (2018) reports obverse die rust within at the letters D in UNITED and R in AMERICA, not seen here. What we do see here is a prooflike finish that contrasts satiny motifs with lightly reflective fields. The entire coin displays warm golden-orange color, and the strike sharp to full in all but a few isolated areas, which still offer bold definition. Light, wispy handling marks are numerous enough to preclude a higher Mint State grade, but only a few on the obverse over and before Liberty's cheek rise to a level where individual attention may be required. The eye appeal is pleasing for a scarce date three-dollar gold piece in certified MS-62.<p>The mintage for this issue of 4,850 circulation strikes is somewhat higher than for the previous few years, and it is estimated that perhaps 300 to 400 examples can be accounted for today in all grades. A few dozen Mint State coins are known, most of which cluster within the MS-60 to MS-62 range.