1885 Liberty Head Half Eagle. JD-1, the only known dies. Rarity-6-. Proof-66 Deep Cameo (PCGS). CAC. A delightful glittering Gem, this half eagle offers vivid color and superbly preserved surfaces. Both sides are a rich yellow-gold with light, pleasing orange-peel texture to the mint finish. The devices, which are fully struck and satiny, appear to float atop the reflective fields. Some scratches on the outside of the plastic holder should not be confused with hairlines on the surfaces, as even close examination fails to reveal any. This coin is one of the most beautiful representatives of this rare Proof issue ever to pass through our hands. Accurately graded and worthy of a strong bid in all regards.<p>The Proof mintage for this issue is a paltry 66 pieces, only 22 to 26 of which are believed extant in all grades (per John W. Dannreuther, <em>United States Proof Coins, Volume IV: Gold</em>, 2018). This is the Dannreuther plate coin, one of the finest known to both PCGS and CAC. It is a phenomenal rarity, perfect for inclusion in an advanced Proof gold cabinet.<p> PCGS# 98480. NGC ID: 28CN. PCGS Population: 3; with a single Proof-66+ Deep Cameo finer.<p>CAC Population: 4; 0.<p> From our Philadelphia ANA Auction of August 2012, lot 11712. The plate coin for the issue in the 2018 Dannreuther reference on Proof gold coinage.
