1886 $3, CAM PR(PCGS#88050)

1886 $3, CAM PR (PCGS#88050)

Summer 2025 Global Showcase Auction U.S. Coins

Lot Description: This handsome and fully original Gem Proof 1886 $3 represents one of the finest auction offerings for the issue in recent decades. Deep, rich color in orange and reddish-gold is seen on both sides and delivers outstanding eye appeal. Light haziness to the surfaces is noted, especially at upper right obverse, also in and around the central reverse. Sharply stuck with subtle "orange peel" texture in the fields and a marked contrast against the satiny devices. Virtually untouched and superior for the assigned grade, only the strongest bids will be competitive for this impressive offering.<p>The 1886 was produced to the extent of 142 Proofs, surpassed by the mintages of only the Proof 1887 and Proof 1888. Most of the Proofs struck in 1886 were distributed and subsequently preserved. Numismatic experts are generally in agreement on the number of coins extant, Bowers and Winter (2005) providing a figure in the range of 80 to 100 coins, seconded by Dannreuther (2018), with <em>PCGS CoinFacts</em> offering a similar range of 75 to 90 survivors. The present Cameo Gem is a newcomer to the modern market, having been acquired by Floyd T. Starr at auction in 1937 and subsequently preserved in his collection and estate for the last 88 years. Its offering here represents an important bidding opportunity for advanced gold type or date collectors.