1889 Liberty Head Double Eagle. Proof-65 Ultra Cameo (NGC).，Rare in an absolute sense, this beautiful Gem is also an impressive condition rarity that ranks among the finest Proof 1889 double eagles certified. Vivid orange-gold surfaces are exceptionally smooth for being so delicate, both within the deeply mirrored fields and over the well frosted devices. The fields are characterized by the desirable "orange peel" texture frequently seen on Proof Liberty Head gold coinage from the late 19th century. The strike is full with needle sharp definition throughout the design. This lovely specimen is sure to please even the most discerning numismatist.<p>While all Proof Liberty Head double eagles are rightly recognized as true numismatic rarities, the actual rarity of the Proof 1889 is often overlooked by more casual researchers and collectors. Perhaps it is because the 1889 is preceded by a trio of Proof double eagle issues each with mintages in excess of 100 pieces. The Proof 1889, on the other hand, was produced to the extent of just 41 coins, the lowest mintage for any Proof double eagle issue since 1880, and the final Proof Liberty Head double eagle with a Proof mintage of fewer than 50 coins.<p>Coupled with the small mintage is a poor rate of survival for a Proof double eagle from the 1880s. The face value alone of these coins represented a significant sum of money by 1880s standards, and few contemporary Americans could afford to acquire a Proof 1889 double eagle, or retain it. Many examples were accordingly destroyed in the Mint as unsold, with a few others undoubtedly placed into circulation. While estimates on the number of Proof 1889 double eagles extant vary, most numismatic references provide a range of only 12 to 15 pieces extant. (We are even aware of one estimate in the range of only 10 to 12 survivors.) A highlight of our November sale, this significant rarity would serve as a centerpiece in the most advanced numismatic cabinet.，PCGS# 99105. NGC ID: 26EA.，NGC Census: 2; 3 finer in this category (Proof-66 * Ultra Cameo finest).，From the Murray Hill Collection. Acquired from Stacks Bowers Galleries. Earlier from our Americana Sale of January 2012, lot 10726.
