1863 Three-Dollar Gold Piece. JD-1, the only known dies. Rarity-6+. Proof-64 Cameo (NGC). CAC. This is an miraculous survivor of the low-mintage Proof 1863 $3 that ranks among the finest known. A lovely blend of tangerine and peach coloration mingles across each side, complemented by particularly deep reflectivity on the reverse. It is sharply defined with frosty satin texture across the devices and a desirable orange peel texture in the fields. This beautiful near-Gem has been unavailable to collectors since December 1996. Only two coins rank finer at NGC and CAC. A truly important offering. <p>The chaos wrought by the Civil War created an environment that was not conducive to either the production or retention of Proof gold coins. With little bullion reaching the Philadelphia Mint while gold specie payments were in suspension in the Eastern States, even business strike mintages were limited from 1862 forward. Accordingly, fewer Proofs were struck as well, as the Mint probably anticipated weak sales as otherwise ardent collectors were distracted by the war. In the specific case of the Proof 1863 $3, only 35 coins were struck and only about half of these escaped melting in the Mint or later loss. This entire mintage was achieved on March 23, and only 14 to 16 coins are believed extant (per John W. Dannreuther, 2018). Any auction offering for a Proof 1863 $3 is a significant event. This new-to-market Proof-64 Cameo (NGC) CAC from the Zito Collection is sure to cause particularly fierce competition among astute bidders.</p> From the Dr. Paul and Rosalie Zito Collection. Acquired December 4, 1996.
