1882 Three-Dollar Gold Piece. MS-64 (PCGS).This satin to semi-prooflike beauty is sharply struck with vivid orange-gold patina. The overall appearance is uncommonly smooth for both the issue and the assigned grade. One of the more readily identifiable key date three-dollar gold pieces, the 1882 has a paltry circulation strike mintage of 1,500 coins. Most of the survivors -- and there are few in any grade -- are lightly circulated and probably represent pieces that saw limited commercial use in banking transactions. This premium near-Gem is a noteworthy departure, having come down to the present day without acquired either wear or detracting blemishes. Given that this issue is rarely offered at or above the MS-65 level, this delightful Choice example represents excellent value for the astute numismatist specializing in this challenging gold series.
