Lot 1297
1896 $20 Liberty. PCGS graded Proof 66 Deep Cameo. A fabulous superb Gem Proof with rich golden-orange peel surfaces that radiate with deep mirror surfaces and heavily frosted devices. Only 128 Proofs minted of which this is certainly amongst the finest known.
A magnificent coin from every technical grading standpoint and visually compelling as it combines sleek mirror fields with lovely "orange peel" textured surfaces. Toned a nice warm gold and orange. The detail in the striking proves to be needle-sharp while all devices are well frosted. A great discovery in this condition, despite a reported Proof mintage for the date of 128 pieces which one would think might have led to a few more Gems in the grading service roster. It could be that a fair number of the original Proof mintage for 1896 never found buyers, since few numismatists in America in those days could afford Proof gold.
The present coin will supply the needs for the specialist or Type buyer wanting an outstanding example of this Proof date. Among Proof double eagles of this era, only a small percentage have survived in quality equaling this! Pop 4 with none finer. (PCGS # 99112) .
Estimated Value $120,000 - 140,000.
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| Realized $123,625 |
