1886 $3 PR(PCGS#8050)

1886 $3 PR (PCGS#8050)

The January 2013 Americana Sale

Lot Description: 1886 Three-Dollar Gold Piece. Proof-64 (PCGS). An exceptional Gem Proof coin that shows contrast between the mirrored fields and frosted devices. In terms of color the fields show deep orange-gold hues while the devices are heaped high with mint frost of a bright yellow-gold nature, inducing the desired variation in textured frost against the glassy fields. Furthermore, the quality is outstanding for a proof $3 gold coin, with the fields and devices virtually perfect in their preservation, lacking the usual hairlines or nicks of any kind. No copper specks of any consequence, and the color is about as nice as a collector could hope to find. Notably the reverse die was rotated about 10 degrees counter clockwise when struck, a feature found on many United States coins, but rarely on Proof gold coinage. These Proof gold coins offer dramatic eye appeal and are often highly sought-after by collectors. Of the original mintage of 142 pieces, PCGS has awarded at most nine coins their Gem designation, with a single example finer. Gem is the prized grade level for any numismatist to aspire to own. Without question, here is one of the finest known examples of this elusive Proof issue.