Fr-186; Y-42; Bit-29(R3); Sev-528(<strong>VERY RARE</strong>). Smooth edge and without assayer initials. Population of two at this level with two graded finer at PCGS, and with none seen in proof at NGC. First year of the Alexander III portrait coinage and a <strong>VERY RARE</strong> issue in <strong>PROOF</strong>. A tantalizing coin with deep concave obverse fields producing a nearly high relief portrait of the Tsar. The <strong>CAMEO</strong> effect is immediately evident with the fields exhibiting dark icy surfaces in contrast to the finely frosted devices and legends. The piece clearly shows off the world class state of technology employed at the Saint Petersburg mint at the time of its manufacture, with every last detail all the way down to the denticles fully delineated. An important and highly desirable coin that is sure to spark considerable interest.，PCGS PROOF-64 CAMEO Secure Holder.，From the Kiev Collection. Ex: Stacks CICF March 1988 Sale, Lot #2203.
