1884 $1, CAM PR(PCGS#87319)

December 2025 Showcase Auction - The James A. Stack, Sr. Collection Part I

Auctioneer

Stack's Bowers

Lot Number

20009

Grade

PR66CAM

Price

27,600

Lot Description

Here is a highly desirable specimen that combines attractively original toning with superior surface preservation. Both sides are nearly brilliant in the centers, with the peripheries warmly toned in olive-copper patina. The toning, while appearing somewhat deep at indirect viewing angles, actually has an iridescent quality that includes more vivid undertones of powder blue, champagne-pink and pale gold. This is a sharply struck coin, as confirmed by looking at the central high points, where crisp delineation to the hair curls over Liberty's ear and complete plumage on the eagle's breast are seen. The softly frosted design elements offer appreciable contrast with reflective fields supporting the desirable Cameo designation from PCGS. Impressively smooth overall, nothing less than a premium Gem grade would capture the combination of expert preservation and strong eye appeal that defines this lovely Proof.<p>The Philadelphia Mint struck 875 Proof silver dollars in 1884. Not widely recognized is that these special coins were struck on a screw press; it was not until 1894 that the Mint introduced a hydraulic press for Proof coinage. The result is that, while some Proof 1884 Morgan dollars are very sharply struck, as here, most are boldly defined, at best, while more than a few are obviously soft at the central high points.<p>Surface quality can also be a stumbling block when it comes to locating a premium 1884 Proof Morgan dollar, in fact even more so than strike quality. Discounting the latter, Q. David Bowers sums up this situation nicely in his 1993 reference <em>Silver Dollars & Trade Dollars of the United States: A Complete Encyclopedia</em>:<p><em>As might be expected from the mintage of 875 pieces, Proofs are readily available on the market. However, as is also the case with nearly all other early dates of Proof Morgan dollars, many have been cleaned and today are in the lower grade ranges of Proof-60 to 63.</em><p>As an upper end Gem with exceptional strike detail, the James A. Stack, Sr. specimen is a significant condition rarity. The cameo finish adds further appeal for discerning numismatists, who will surely complete vigorously for the honor of securing this prize.