This lovely Gem 1885 three-dollar gold coin is noticeably prooflike in finish, as perhaps should be expected given the small number of coins struck. Both sides display shimmering reflectivity in the fields and the devices are more satiny in texture with a razor sharp strike. The entire coin is expertly preserved and dressed in luxurious golden-orange patina.Few three-dollar gold coins of 1854 to 1889 are as instantly recognized as rarities and eagerly sought by todays advanced collectors as is the 1885. The very low mintage of 801 circulation strikes was delivered in late March of the year; three months later an example sold at auction for face value. By the early 1920s, this date was considered a great rarity in numismatic circles. Estimates suggest 75 to 100 Mint State coins can be accounted for today, along with perhaps 90 to 120 circulated pieces, a fairly even split of the remaining coins. The circulated coin population is replete with AU pieces, many of which may have been retrieved from banks and the like by Thomas L. Elder and passed on to numismatists in his era. Most of the Mint State survivors are found in the MS-60 to MS-62 range, or marginally finer. Truly Choice coins are elusive and Gems are just plain rare. The present piece outshines the MS-64 Jewell specimen (American Numismatic Rarities, 2005) and is equal in grade to the fantastic MS-65 Bass coin (Bowers and Merena, 1999). If you are a connoisseur who appreciates quality and rarity, this coin answers both calls.,,PCGS# 8007. NGC ID: 25N8.,PCGS Population: 12; 7 finer through MS-67.,
