1897 $20 PR65+ Deep Cameo PCGS. CAC. JD-1, R.5....

Description

1897 Double Eagle, PR65+ Deep Cameo
Best We Have Handled in a Decade
Finest Example at PCGS

1897 $20 PR65+ Deep Cameo PCGS. CAC. JD-1, R.5. Ex: Simpson. There is some discrepancy in the reported number of proof double eagles struck in 1897. The Guide Book puts forth a mintage of 86 pieces, while John Dannreuther notes 76 pieces struck and explains that the difference between the figures remains unresolved. Regardless, this issue is markedly scarcer than its immediate predecessor, the 1896 double eagle, which was struck to the extent of 128 proofs. Survival estimates for the 1897 range from 20 to 25 coins (Garrett and Guth, 2006) to 30 to 40 coins (Dannreuther, 2018). The latter explains in United States Proof Coins, Volume IV: Gold:

"Superb quality in manufacturing of these double eagles is one of the reason we have such examples available to collect. Those Proofs struck in the second half of the 1890's were more often saved because of their deep frost and excellent mirrors. Double eagle Proofs are the pinnacle of the brilliant era of the Mint and especially so when the raised features have such heavy frost."

Despite the mention of 1897 proof double eagles being "available to collect," we should all be clear that opportunities to obtain examples in any grade have actually been few and far between in recent years. Heritage Auctions has handled a single PR60 example over the last seven years. It has been a full decade since we offered an 1897 proof double eagle of comparable quality to the Bob R. Simpson coin.

This PR65+ Deep Cameo twenty is tied with three other Gems in this category at PCGS. None are finer, this particular actually has a claim to sole finest if takes the Plus designation into account. Orange-gold surfaces showcase jet-black mirrors and razor-sharp, thickly frosted devices. A trio of microscopic contact marks on Liberty's neck and another thin mark hidden within the middle curls will identify the coin in future appearances. Get ready to bid accordingly when this CAC-approved proof gold rarity crosses the block. Population: 4 in 65 (1 in 65+) Deep Cameo, 0 finer. CAC: 3 in 65, 1 finer (6/22).(Registry values: P2)

Coin Index Numbers: (NGC ID# 26EJ, PCGS# 99113, Greysheet# 10100)

Weight: 33.44 grams

Metal: 90% Gold, 10% Copper

Note for clients in the European Union: This lot is considered by the European Union to be “investment gold”. We believe that it meets the criteria established in Article 344(1), point (2) of Council Directive 2006/112/EC and thus should be exempt from import VAT regardless of the selling price. Any questions or concerns about VAT should be addressed to your accountant or local tax authority.

View all of [Important Selections from The Bob R. Simpson Collection, Part IX ]

View Certification Details from PCGS