1885 Gold Dollar. Proof-67 Ultra Cameo (NGC).This exquisite Superb Gem exhibits vivid golden-yellow patina to silky smooth, virtually pristine surfaces. Frosty devices are sharply defined and set against a backdrop of illimitable depth of reflectivity in the fields, the interplay between these features explaining the coveted Ultra Cameo designation from NGC. A stunning absolute and condition rarity that would serve as a highlight in the finest gold cabinet.The United States Mint in Philadelphia produced 1,105 Proof gold dollars in 1885. Writing in the new reference United States Proof Coins, Volume IV: Gold, Part I (2018), John W. Dannreuther states that 30 coins were delivered on January 17 for inclusion in complete Proof sets, followed by additional deliveries of 218, 106, 111 and 640 specimens before years end. The author has identified two varieties for this issue using two obverse dies and one reverse die. The two die pairings are of equal rarity in numismatic circles with 100 to 150 coins believed extant for each. This puts the total surviving population of this issue at no more than 300 coins, the typical example encountered in todays market with lower quality and far less eye appeal than offered here. A phenomenal coin worthy of the strongest bids.NGC Census: 7; just 2 finer in this category (both Proof-68 Ultra Cameo).
