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Description

Superb Gem 1901 Liberty Eagle
Rare Cameo Example, 85 Pieces Struck
Tied for Finest Certified

1901 $10 PR67 Cameo NGC. Only 85 proof Liberty eagles were struck in 1901, a considerably smaller mintage than the 120 proofs struck in 1900, or the 113 produced in 1902. Fortunately, the 1901 issue seems to enjoy a fairly high survival rate, and PCGS estimates the surviving population at 50-65 pieces in all grades. This is in stark contrast to David Akers findings in 1980, when he wrote, "Proofs are very rare; only 25-30 are known." Walter Breen noted that many examples are nicked, or have been cleaned. Since Akers based his work on auction appearances, which tend to be high-grade coins, it is possible that he was not aware of many impaired specimens. On the other hand, the PCGS population data may be inflated by resubmissions and crossovers. Perhaps the true number of survivors lies somewhere between these two estimates, at around 40-45 examples.
There is absolutely no doubt that the 1901 proof eagle is extremely rare in Superb Gem Condition, with the Cameo designation. Currently, NGC has certified only two specimens at this lofty grade level, with none finer, while PCGS has graded no example finer than MS66 (6/12). This coin exhibits virtually unmarked surfaces, with vivid orange-gold patina. The fields are deeply mirrored and the design elements are richly frosted, creating a startling black-on-gold cameo flash when the coin is tilted in the light. The devices are all fully brought up, adding to the incredible eye appeal. This coin should find a home in the finest collection of Liberty proof gold.
Ex: Ohringer Family Trust (Ira and Larry Goldberg, 5/2008), lot 4465, realized $74,750; Whister Collection (Goldberg, 9/2011), lot 2096, realized $69,000.(Registry values: P1)

Coin Index Numbers: (NGC ID# 28G8, PCGS# 88841, Greysheet# 9721)

Weight: 16.72 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 Certification Details from NGC

Auction Info

Auction Dates
August, 2012
2nd-5th Thursday-Sunday
Bids + Registered Phone Bidders: 10
Lot Tracking Activity: N/A
Page Views: 1,230

Buyer's Premium per Lot:
17.5% of the successful bid per lot.

Sold on Aug 3, 2012 for: $58,750.00
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