George III gold Proof Guinea 1787 PR65 Cameo NGC, KM609, S-3729, W&R-104 (R3). Plain edge. A magnificent Proof specimen of the first year for the iconic 'Spade' Guinea, so-called for its distinctively shaped reverse shield. Just 168 Proof sets were produced in 1787 consisting of this, the Half Guinea, Shilling and Sixpence (both silver denominations having been out of production for decades), and they remain one of the rarest and most obscure sets, being struck solely for Bank of England officials. This piece is, in a word, fantastic. Truly immaculate, its fields textured through vertical die-polish lines, George's portrait richly frosted and fully deserving of its cameo designation. The reverse is similarly perfect, with only one or two minute surface marks preventing this from entering an even loftier grade (although it is clear that this piece was still likely conservatively graded). The planchet is almost entirely a satiny butter-gold in color, punctuated by vibrant splashes of iridescent red tone. Both NGC and PCGS's censuses combined report just one PR65+ example, with none graded higher. Accordingly, this fabulous gem represents what is essentially the ceiling of quality for the type. A stunning piece of numismatic intrigue, and an essential addition to higher-tier collections of British Proofs. Ex. Caranett Collection

HID09801242017

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