1863 Silver Three-Cent Piece. Proof-67 Cameo (NGC). CMQ.

This exquisite Superb Gem offers an irresistible combination of superior technical quality and strong eye appeal. For the former we note full striking detail, virtually pristine surfaces, and a boldly cameo finish that pits frosty design elements against reflective fields. Rich cobalt blue and steel-rose target toning on the obverse adds great eye appeal, although the more reserved reverse is also highly attractive with delicate champagne-pink peripheral iridescence around a nearly brilliant center. Demand for Proof coins during the Civil War was not high and, as a result, the net mintage of 460 Proof silver three-cent pieces does not include examples that were melted as unsold. Fortunately, the ones that were sold were generally well preserved and a few Gem examples are known. In general, the issue was very well produced and Cameo examples are more available than for some of the other dates in the series. On the other hand, few such pieces are as expertly preserved and attractively toned as the Superb Gem offered here. It is superlative in every respect and destined for the finest of collections.

PCGS# 83712. NGC ID: 22ZP.

NGC Census: 2; with a single Proof-69 Cameo finer in this category. The corresponding PCGS Population is similar at 2/2 (Proof-67+ Cameo finest at that service).

Estimate: $13000