This is a gorgeous Gem that offers premium quality for both the issue and the assigned grade. A bold cameo finish is not mentioned on the old style PCGS insert, but there is appreciable contrast between satiny devices and reflective fields. The entire coin is lightly toned in delicate golden iridescence, and there are subtle rose-russet highlights here and there around the peripheries. Both sides are exceptionally well preserved with a virtually pristine appearance.This survivor hails from a reported mintage of 470 pieces. Writing in the 1993 reference <em>Silver Dollars & Trade Dollars of the United States: A Complete Encyclopedia</em>, Q. David Bowers casts doubt on the accuracy of this figure given the relative frequency with which survivors appear in the numismatic market. While the coins struck that year were distributed as part of silver Proof sets, as was customary for the era, Bowers relates that additional pieces may have been produced in later years. Further strengthening the case for multiple striking periods is the fact that numismatic scholars have identified three different die marriages -- a large number for a Proof issue with only 470 coins struck. On the other hand, <em>five</em> different obverse dies are known for the 880-coin mintage of 1895 Morgan dollars, with no suggestion that any were made other than in that year. John Dannreuther is deep in research for a study on Proof coins that will include many unknown facts. In any event, and despite the relative obtainability of the 1864 among Proof No Motto Liberty Seated dollars, the 1864 remains rare in grades above Proof-64. Indeed, very few of the examples that we have handled over the years are as smooth, attractive, and expertly preserved as this lovely specimen. A delight to behold, and sure to see spirited bidding.,,PCGS# 7007. NGC ID: 252J.,PCGS Population: 17; 5 finer in this category (Proof-67 finest).,From the Bull Run Collection.
