1863 Liberty Seated Silver Dollar. Proof-66 Cameo (PCGS). This breathtakingly beautiful specimen combines attractive originality with superior technical quality into an irresistible package for the discerning numismatist. Off center areas of silver-tinged brilliance are framed by iridescent halos of powder blue, antique gold and pinkish-rose. Moving further out toward the borders ones eye is greeted by warmer toning in rich steely-copper. Reflective fields and a boldly cameoed finish are readily evident as the surfaces dip into a light. Fully struck, expertly preserved and visually appealing, this coin would serve as a highlight in any numismatic cabinet. As with most Proof silver dollars of the era, the 1863 was largely distributed as part of the years silver Proof sets. With 460 pieces struck from two distinct die marriages, the 1863 issue enjoys a good rate of survival for a Proof Liberty Seated dollar of the No Motto type, especially compared to that of many pre-Civil War issues. This is perhaps because the suspension of specie payments in July 1862 made the acquisition and preservation of all silver coins particularly attractive. Specialist Dick Osburn and Brian Cushing suggest that around 130 survivors remain of the OC-P1 die pair, offered here, and featuring a reverse die that would go on to strike Proofs again in 1864. Most of these estimated 130 pieces are found in grades of Proof-64 and lower, however, making the present Gem Cameo example a significant find for specialists. From the Castle Pines Collection.
