1887 $5 JD-1, R.5, PR64 Deep Cameo PCGS. CAC....

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1887 Liberty Half Eagle, PR64 Deep Cameo CAC
Classic Proof-Only Series Rarity
35 to 45 Examples Extant

1887 $5 JD-1, R.5, PR64 Deep Cameo PCGS. CAC. The Philadelphia Mint struck 87 proof Liberty half eagles for collectors in 1887, but no business-strike mintage was produced. As might be expected, the small supply of proofs has always been under heavy pressure from date collectors and series specialists. Prominent gold specialist David Akers observed:

"The 1887 is the only date in the Half Eagle series that was struck only in proof ... since the date is only available in proof, the 1887 has reached a price level exceeding that of any date after 1859 except the 1875."

The proofs were delivered in near-quarterly batches of 25, 17, 10, and 35 pieces throughout the year. A single pair of dies was used to strike all the proofs. The reverse die shows heavy die polish in the clear stripes of the shield. This feature makes it possible to differentiate between authentic proofs and prooflike 1887-S examples that have had their mintmarks removed. John Dannreuther estimates the surviving population at 35 to 45 examples in all grades. Examples with Deep Cameo contrast are especially elusive.
This spectacular Choice proof exhibits sharply detailed design elements, with a rich coat of mint frost that contrasts profoundly with the deeply mirrored fields. The well-preserved orange-gold surfaces show only scattered minor contact marks and hairlines in the fields. Overall eye appeal is terrific and the high quality within the grade is confirmed by CAC. This coin is pictured on PCGS CoinFacts. PCGS Population: 2 in 64 (1 in 64+) Deep Cameo, 4 finer (3/26). CAC: 3 in 64, 2 finer (3/26).

Coin Index Numbers: (Variety PCGS# 106878, Base PCGS# 98482)

Metal: 90% Gold, 10% Copper
Weight: 8.36 grams
AGW: 0.27oz

View Certification Details from PCGS