1892 $2.50 PCGS PR64 DCAM

105 Proofs were struck. The quality of Proof gold from the 1892-1896 era is just about unbeatable for its quality of appearance. The amount of contrast seen on many Proofs from this era is incredible and this example is a clear indication of this as it has completely frosted devices set against very deep, watery fields. What makes this coin so appealing is its remarkable natural deep orange-gold and coppery color which is present on both the obverse and reverse. The surfaces are bright and reflective with no hairlines of note; a tiny mark before Liberty's mouth appears to be mint-made and in the planchet. This is a scarce date even as a business strike and the survival rate for proofs is not as high as one might expect with maybe three dozen known. This piece would be perfect for the Proof collector working on a type set of Liberty Head issues as it has the appearance of a Superb Gem at around half the price.

1872 $2.50 PCGS PR64 DCAM

One of only 30 Proofs struck. Looking at population statistics and auction records over the last two or three decades, I believe that there are no more than 12-15 Proofs known and only a handful of these grade PR64 or better. This example is a virtual Gem with strong black and white contrast between the frosted devices and the watery fields. There are no significant hairlines noted below magnification; the obverse has a pair of small mint-made lintmarks in the left field and a tiny dark spot immediately above the eagle's left beak. There are no auction records whatsoever for this date in Proof DCAM or Proof UCAM and the last 1872 quarter eagle in Proof to sell was Stack's 8/07: 3125 (a PCGS PR64CAM) that realized $20,700. This coin is tied with two others as the best Proof 1872 quarter eagle graded by PCGS; NGC has graded a pair of PR65's and a single PR66 with Ultra Cameo contrast. Proof gold coins of this rarity and significance are almost never offered for sale except at auction and few coins that I have offered for sale in some time offer the value that this fantastic quarter eagle possesses in spades.

1862 $1.00 PCGS PR64 DCAM CAC

One of only 35 Proofs struck. It is likely that as few as 14-16 examples are known in Proof and this date rivals a number of other better-known, higher-priced issues in this series. This is a wonderfully choice example for the grade with bright, highly reflective fields and full cameo contrast. Both sides are superbly toned in deep natural orange-gold hues and there are just a few wispy hairlines (not from cleaning) seen on both sides. For the sake of identification, a tiny curved mint-made lintmark between DO in DOLLAR is mentioned. I think coins like this are exceptional value and I would strongly recommend putting early Proofs of all denominations away for a long-term hold as they seem to have lots and lots of upside. PCGS has graded just two in PR64DCAM with two better. This is the only example in this grade (with a DCAM designation) to have received CAC approval.

Ex Goldberg 2/06: 874 where it sold for $16,675