1862 Indian Cent. Proof-66+ (PCGS). CAC.The golden-tan surfaces are accented by a subtle iridescence of powder blue, violet and yellow shades. The fields are watery and reflective, providing a faint contrast against the satiny design elements. Sharply struck and lacking any notable abrasions.<p><p><p>The United States Mint at Philadelphia struck 550 Proof Indian cents in 1862. Sales to contemporary collectors were likely sluggish at first since the Mint required payment in gold, which had disappeared from circulation in the East and Midwest late in 1861 after the start of the Civil War. While many examples likely remained unsold by years end Rick Snow (2014) states, "It is probable that these pieces, probably numbering 200, were later found and sold to collectors." We suspect that this theory was put forth to explain the relative availability of the 1862 compared to other Proof copper-nickel cents of the 1860 to 1864 era, especially in the finest grades. This issue becomes a considerable rarity above Gem Proof and just a single coin has been graded finer by PCGS in this category. A delight to behold, and a perfect candidate for another world class numismatic cabinet.<p>
