Lot 2148
1899. NGC graded Proof 69 Ultra Cameo. A brilliant untoned virtually perfect proof Liberty Half Eagle. Not only the finest known example for the date but a candidate for finest known for the type! Only 99 struck.
A truly magnificent specimen! One might wonder how this coin has been saved for over 114 years in such a careful state of preservation. Needle sharp as though struck throughout with special attention deserving of a place in the Smithsonian or some European Palace Collection! From the remarkably low Proof coinage, the present coin is a perfect example of the coiner's art at the closing stages of the historic 19th century. Only this single 1899 half eagles has been certified in PR69 Ultra Cameo by NGC, with none finer. It is a privilege to offer this Finest Known 1899 Proof Liberty half. Pop 1; none finer at NGC, and none finer at PCGS (the best one at PCGS is a PRDC-66+). (PCGS # 98494).
At the turn of the 20th century, it was usual for wealthy collectors to order Proof Sets each year to fill in their collections with the finest specimens of the new year’s coinage. This was an age of imperial Empire expansion throughout the world. America participated along with Britain, France, Germany, Russia, and The Netherlands when, in 1898-1900 it "acquired" through conquest or other means the territorial entities of Hawaii, the Philippines, Puerto Rico and Cuba, the latter three having been part of the fast dissolving Spanish overseas territories. Estimated Value $100,000-UP
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| Realized $172,500 |
