1890 Liberty Head Half Eagle. JD-1, the only known dies. Rarity-5. Proof-63+ Ultra Cameo (NGC).
Offered is a lovely Choice Cameo example of this important rarity among classic U.S. Mint Proof gold coinage. Both sides exhibit bright, vivid, orange-gold color with just a touch of haziness to the surfaces. The strike is full and there is good field to device contrast evident. As with all issues in the Proof Liberty Head half eagle series, the 1890 is rare and seldom offered in today's market. The latest research from specialist John Dannreuther ( United States Proof Coins, Volume IV: Gold, 2018) suggests that just 35 to 40 distinct example of this issue remain. This specimen is among the finer examples certified and would make an impressive addition to any gold cabinet.
PCGS# 98485. NGC ID: 28CU.
NGC Census: 1; 11 finer in this category (Proof-67+ * Ultra Cameo finest).
From our Baltimore Auction of July 2015, lot 6040.