A richly original and handsome example of this popular Proof-only Liberty Seated dollar date. Bathed in deep sandy-charcoal patina, both sides do reveal more vivid lilac, blue and antique gold undertones as the surfaces dip into a light. Generally sharp in strike with solid Choice quality in the form of pleasingly smooth, suitably vibrant surfaces.The United States Mint refrained from producing circulation strike silver dollars in 1858, there apparently being no need for additional coins of this denomination in export trade throughout that year. Proofs were struck, however, and in greater quantities than in earlier years as Mint Director Colonel James Ross Snowden made the first real attempt to market such pieces to a wider body of contemporary Americans. The exact number of proof 1858 Liberty Seated dollars struck remains a mystery, and the subject has long been debated by numismatic scholars. At least 210 specimens were struck for distribution as part of the years silver Proof sets, but the popularity of the silver dollar as a denomination almost certainly led to additional strikings for individual sale. Indeed, Q. David Bowers (<em>A Guide Book of Liberty Seated Silver Coins</em>, 2016) as estimated mintage of 300 pieces. Far fewer examples exist today, and the appearance of a Proof 1858 silver dollar in any grade is a notable occasion. After the 1851 and 1852, this is the third rarest Philadelphia Mint date for the type, taking into account the total number of Proofs and (where applicable) circulation strikes extant.,,PCGS# 7001. NGC ID: 252C.,NGC Census: 18; 21 finer in this category (Proof-66 finest).,
