1899 $2.50, DCAM PR(PCGS#97925)

The Regency Auction 33

拍卖行

Legend Rare Coin Auctions

批号

436

等级

PR66+DCAM

价格

226,275

详细说明

WOW! This SUPERB GEM possesses everything that the collector could possibly desire in a proof gold coin. Expansive depth and vast contrast between the highly mirrored fields and frosted devices, far and away stronger than usually seen on these rare proof gold issues. Free of any copper specks, the mirrors are DEEP and black; the reliefs are bright frosty gold with a rich orange-gold patina catches the light and the coin grabs your attention from across the room. Close study of the fields under a light will discover the finely textured and highly desireable orange peel quality which adds a curious texture to the sultry appeal. All the devices are fully struck as would be expected for such an amazing looking coin. Even under the most intense scrutiny with a strong glass we cannot find a single flaw worthy of description; all Quarter Eagle proofs of this date show a shallow indentation in the horizontal shield stripes on the reverse as seen here. The more you look at it, the more mesmerizing it is. The late 1890s saw a triumph of minting techniques that all came together to create these elegant Deep Cameo proof gold coins. First off, the dies had to be carefully prepared, with an acid applied to etch the entire die surface which creates the frosted appearance. Next the frost was completely removed from the fields (the highest point on the die) by carefully polishing the surface, but not so much as to drift into the devices. This process gives the fields their mirror finish and the first few dozen coins struck under high pressure offer the greatest degree of contrast and depth of reflectivity. Long collected by specialists these proof gold coins are the absolute pinnacle of quality in American numismatics, they were struck for collectors and have been held in the highest regard ever since. Their rarity is legendary, and when found in gem or finer grades, with the Deep Cameo contrast, simply cannot be surpassed in dramatic visual effect. Only 150 were minted. PCGS 7, NGC 5, CAC 8. This is the ONLY PR66+ and while 13 coins appear to be graded higher on the PCGS Population Report, we think that includes duplication. This coin last sold in our December 2016 Regency Auction for $34,075. Keep in mind that in February 2015 a PCGS PR66 CAM CAC (no "+") sold for $28,200 and in June 2016, a PCGS PR67 CAM CAC brought $41,125. These unmolested and original GEM proofs are extremely rare, particularly in as fine a grade as offered here. Gold proof coins have long been called the caviar of numismatics, and we believe that any gem proof in a collection adds a mark of sophistication. If you are looking for a truly special coin to put away, here it is. Cert. Number 25010357 PCGS # 97925.00