1862 Liberty Seated Half Dollar. Proof-65 Cameo (PCGS). CMQ.

Brilliant apart from the lightest pale rose peripheral iridescence, this lovely Gem specimen possesses an uncommon degree of field to device contrast for the issue. It is also uncommonly well preserved with only a few wispy handling marks, none of which we deem worthy of individual attention. This issue has a Proof mintage of 550 pieces, and survivors are scarcer than that figure might imply given the chaotic conditions during the second year of the Civil War. It is likely that many examples went unsold at the time, only to be disposed of by the Mint through release into commercial channels. Among the survivors, the best cared for usually grade no finer than Proof-64, and then again without enough contrast to support a Cameo designation from PCGS. Our offering of this important strike and condition rarity represents a fleeting opportunity for specialists.

PCGS# 86416. NGC ID: 27TN.

PCGS Population: 3; 6 finer in this category (Proof-67 Cameo finest). There are no grading events listed in the DCAM category.

From the Arlington Collection.

Estimate: $9000