1862 Three-Dollar Gold Piece. JD-1, the only known dies. Rarity-6+. Proof-65 Deep Cameo (PCGS). CAC. Here is a visually stunning specimen, as well as a numismatic rarity par excellence. Awash in vivid golden-yellow color, the surfaces are enhanced by sharp field to device contrast. The fields are deeply mirrored, and they support devices that are satiny and fully struck. Expertly preserved in all regards, even the most discerning Proof gold enthusiast will be impressed with this Condition Census beauty.<p>The United States Mint at Philadelphia struck 35 Proof three-dollar gold coins in 1862 in a single press run on February 16. Only a single pair of dies were used to coin this total, the obverse of which was previously used for the Proof 1861 three-dollar gold issue and would later strike all known Proofs dated 1863. With outstanding cameo contrast the coin offered likely numbers among the first dozen or so specimens produced; later strikes have minimal frost on the devices and are apt to be certified without a Cameo or Deep/Ultra Cameo designation by PCGS and NGC. All Proof three-dollar gold issues are rare, but the 1862 is rarer than most with an extant population of fewer than 17 coins. This estimate is per John W. Dannreuther, <em>United States Proof Coins, Volume IV: Gold, Part One</em>, 2018; <em>PCGS CoinFacts </em>takes a slightly more liberal view with 16 to 20 coins believed extant. Regardless, the rarity of this issue is beyond debate, and the coin offered here would serve as a highlight in even the finest gold cabinet. From the Huberman Collection. Earlier ex our (Stacks) 85th Annual ANA Convention Sale, August 1976, lot 2890. Lot tag included.
