Lot 1558
1881 $10 Liberty PCGS PF64 CAM. PCGS graded Proof 64 Cameo. CAC Approved. A trace of vivid gold and copper toning can be seen on both sides attesting to the wholesome originality of this monumental rarity. The orignal mintage of 40 pieces has been reduced by time, attrition and various economic troubles to perhasp as few as 10 coins today. One exists in the Ultra Cameo designation seen by NGC and another ealry strike with this contrast resides at the Smithsonian. However, the focus here was to find the most exquisite Cameo designated Proof of each date certified by PCGS, and here is the perfect coin. It is by far the finest of two graded with the Cameo designation by PCGS, the other being a distant PR-61 Cameo. Notice the regal orange peel texture in the fields, and how the fields seem to fall away from the frosted devices when examined. Such contrast is so compelling to view, it makes any numismatist desire to study the surfaces for hours. At the time these 1881 gold eagles were struck, they represented a considerable sum of money, even for the wealthy, thus most were eventually spent as hard times came and went, and no doubt the majority of these proofs were lost due to unfortunate circumstances of their initial owners. Today, those that do survive have become far more valuable and desirable. Pop 1; none finer at PCGS (PCGS # 88821) Estimated Value $30,000-UP
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