1861 Liberty Head Eagle. JD-1, the only known dies. Rarity-7. Proof-64+ Cameo (PCGS). CAC. A phenomenal rarity and an incredibly beautiful coin that will be a highlight of the finest gold cabinet. Fully struck with razor sharp detail and a soft satin texture, the devices contrast strongly with well mirrored fields. The color is a luxurious golden-orange shade with wisps of reddish-rose also evident. Virtually devoid of handling, we note only a few wispy hairlines that do not detract and serve only to define the premium Choice Proof grade from PCGS.<p>While the circulation strike 1861 is among the most plentiful No Motto eagles, its identically dated Proof counterpart is a major numismatic rarity. With the Civil War beginning that year, the nation had more pressing matters to attend to than numismatics. While the Philadelphia Mint still managed to strike 69 eagles that year for distribution as part of complete Proof sets, very few of these sold to contemporary Americans. Many were melted in the Mint in January 1862, in fact, and others were certainly lost at other times. Most estimates on the number of survivors are in the range of 10 pieces - a paltry total that confirms the present offering as likely a once in a lifetime opportunity for advanced gold enthusiasts. The Trompeter provenance adds to the desirability of this exquisite specimen.<p> PCGS# 88797. NGC ID: 28EX. PCGS Population; 4 in all grades, just 1 of which is in the Cameo category (the present example).<p>CAC Population: 2 in all grades, Proof-64 Cameo and Proof-64+ Cameo. Ex Trompeter Collection; Heritages Dallas Signature Auction of March 2013, lot 4328.
