Lot 2001
1875. PCGS graded Proof 60. Lots of flashy proof surface and overlaid with attractive light golden toning. This is the Key Date to the entire series. Only 20 struck for this Proof-only year. This is the first of two years in the Three-Dollar gold series that witnessed the production of only Proof coins. Exactly how many 1875 Threes were delivered is unknown, despite the fact that the Guide Book lists an "official" mintage of 20 pieces. We believe that this figure actually is official, inasmuch as it represents the number of specimens delivered on February 13, 1875 for sale with the year's gold Proof sets. Given the fact that approximately 28-35 coins are believed extant (per Bowers and Winter, 2005), additional examples must have been prepared at a later date, and they were probably sold individually.
Due to its Proof-only status, as well as the fame and attraction that accrues to a numismatic rarity with such a restricted number of pieces in existence, the 1875 Three-Dollar gold is one of the most widely sought after issues in the entire 19th century gold series. It is always gives rise to extreme pride for us when we can offer a coin for bidder consideration, and when that piece is as carefully preserved and attractive as the present Proof 60. Natural patina envelops both sides as already described, its appearance being most accurately found as a blend shades and mint flash. The fields, of course, appear with some depth of the reflectivity that they still possess given the modest Proof 60 grade. The devices remain fairly consistent with others as the viewer holds and rotates it under a light, the surface finish on the devices is gentle and satiny in texture and somewhat contrasted with that noted in the fields. Both the obverse and the reverse are well struck from the dies, and both sides reveal a few blemishes that go with the grade, light marks and hairlines that would scarcely call into question the validity of the grade designation. An attractive looking specimen for the gold-rarities specialist. Pop 1; 4 finer in 64 (PCGS # 8039) .
Estimated Value $70,000 - 80,000.
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| Realized $83,375 |
