1871 Two-Cent Piece. Proof-66 RB (PCGS). CAC.Vivid deep orange mint color shines powerfully through an even overlay of iridescent olive-brown toning. Ideal color blending for the RB designation combines with a full strike and expertly preserved surfaces to establish this as one of the finest Proof 1871 two-cent pieces obtainable. Circulation strike two-cent production fell off markedly in 1866, and yearly mintages continued to fall through 1872, when the final coins of this type were delivered for circulation. Interestingly, yearly Proof mintages climbed somewhat through 1872, indicating more of an increase in demand for silver and minor coin Proof sets than a specific interest in Proof two-cent pieces. Most numismatic sources estimate the mintage of the Proof 1871 at 960+ pieces, the exact mintage unknown as the Mint did not begin recording the number of Proof minor coins struck until the late 1870s. The 1871 is conditionally challenging and can be difficult to obtain any finer than Proof-64 RB. Indeed, the typical example that passes through our hands is a moderately to extensively toned Red and Brown with at least a few distracting carbon flecks or other blemishes. The present example is a premium upper end Gem with abundant eye appeal. Sure to sell for a strong premium.PCGS# 3646. NGC ID: 22NH.PCGS Population: 36; 0 finer in this category.<p>CAC Population: 22; 0.From the Collection of James Allaire Millholland, 1842-1911.
