1865 Indian Cent. Snow-PR1. Proof-65 RD Cameo (PCGS). CAC.Lovely golden-orange and light rose color is seen on both sides of this expertly preserved Gem Proof Indian cent. Pleasing smooth surfaces display a full strike and appreciably mirrored fields. In addition to its status as a condition rarity among surviving Proof 1865 Indian cents, this coin is significant as an example of the rare Snow-PR1 die pairing. Most 1865 Proof cents are attributable as Snow-PR2, Rick Snow (2014) asserting that those dies likely accounted for the 500 examples that the Mint struck in February and March, 1865, for inclusion in the years Proof sets. The author also states, Additional pieces were undoubtedly struck, but probably not too many. If Snow is correct, the rare Snow-PR1 die marriage is a likely candidate for the additional Proof 1865 cents that the Mint produced for individual distribution. Here is an absolute and condition rarity that will appeal to advanced Proof Indian cent date and variety specialists.From Ira & Larry Goldbergs sale of the Heathgate Collection of Indian Head Cents, February 2001, lot 1094; our May 2019 sale, lot 29.
