This unquestionably Proof 1839 No Drapery dime is sharply struck with broad borders and a partial wire rim on both sides. Of further note in this regard is the finish, which is of a light satin texture over the devices, yet appreciably reflective in the fields. Both sides are untoned with silver white brilliance. Wispy handling marks explain the numeric grade assigned by NGC.Simply put, the 1839 Liberty Seated dime is rare in Proof format. Prior to the late 1850s the United States Mint struck (extremely) limited numbers of Proof coins in any given year, generally for official presentation purposes or distribution to a select few numismatists with close ties to government personnel. The mintages for these specially prepared coins were not recorded during that era, so the number struck can only be surmised based on the surviving populations. In the specific case of the Proof 1839 dime, we believe that only five or six different specimens can be accounted for today. Obviously of the utmost importance to advanced collectors specializing in Proof Liberty Seated coinage, this issue also holds significant appeal for specimen type purposes. The 1839 is one of only three Proof issues in the short-lived Stars Obverse, No Drapery Liberty Seated dime series, and the combined population for the 1838, 1839 and 1840 is likely on the order of just 10 to 12 pieces. Once this coin finds its way into a tightly held collection it may be many years before another Proof of this date or type appears on the open market. The strongest bids are encouraged for the astute collector seeking to add this impressive rarity to their numismatic holdings.,,PCGS# 4722. NGC ID: 23BR.,Combined PCGS and NGC Population: 5 in all grades (Proof-66 NGC finest).,From Heritages Baltimore ANA Signature Auction, July-August 2008, lot 1613.
