A remarkably well produced and preserved example that will surely impress even the most discerning collectors. Untoned surfaces allow ready appreciation of stark cameo contrast. The fields are deeply mirrored, highly reflective and form a splendid backdrop to satin to softly frosted devices. Fully struck, as befits the issue, with extremely well cared for surfaces that border on pristine.One of our favorite issues in the Proof Barber half dollar series of 1892 to 1915, the 1898 vies with the 1896 and 1897 as the most consistently well produced and attractive for the type. The typical survivor of this 735-piece delivery is fully struck, the dies also imparting pronounced field to device contrast that is worthy of at least a Cameo designation by todays third party grading standards. Whether toned or brilliant, virtually all Proof 1898 half dollars that we have handled over the years have possessed exceptional visual appeal. Yet even so, the present specimen contains that something extra, difficult to define but real nonetheless, that sets it apart from the vast majority of its surviving counterparts. Virtually perfect, in fact, this coin belongs in the finest Proof type or date set, where it will certainly enjoy pride of place.,,PCGS# 96545. NGC ID: 24P2.,NGC Census: 5; 1 finer in this category (Proof-68+ * Ultra Cameo).,
