This impressive gem 1878 $3 displays rich luster engaging the frosty orange-gold surfaces, and pools of pale sky blue iridescence on both sides. The strike is sharp and essentially complete in its details. On the obverse the marks are largely inconsequential and the reverse is just as free of marks of note. The mintage for the date of 82,304 pieces is second in size to just the 1854, and for that reason it is pretty much available to any collector who desires a specimen, and even gems can be found with diligent searching. This year’s $3 coinage was delivered by the coiner in several batches including one delivery in May followed by three in June and a final delivery, the largest of them all, in November. The Mint felt that as paper currency and gold coins were expected to achieve parity soon, there would be a great rush to exchange bills for coins. This did not happen, as citizens holding paper were content to do so, secure in the knowledge that gold coins could be obtained if wanted. Parity was achieved on December 17, 1878. The present gem 1878 coin is of exceptional quality and eye appeal.PCGS# 8000. NGC ID: 25MZ.
