1892 Gold Eagle (1892 $10) PCGS PR64 CAM. The 1892 eagle in Proof is considered to be a more common date among proof Liberty eagles. Yet, examples are not easily found as the mintage was a mere 72 pieces. Of these, approximately 25-30 survive in all grades, with most of these not having enough frost to warrant the Cameo designation. Furthermore, in their reference on gold coinage, Ruth-Garrett note on this issue that “not all of the 1892 Proofs have survived in nice condition as compared to other dates”.
The present piece warrants a strong “orange-peel” effect that is highly appreciated by most collectors. This effect is found often on Proof gold coins from this era, but is especially profound on the present coin. Very scarcely found in higher grades, the present piece is among the finest known Proof 1892 gold eagles. Both PCGS and NGC have graded only a handful pieces in gem grades are higher, whatever the Cameo designation. The present offering thus represents a rare opportunity for the Proof gold specialist.
As can be expected for a Proof gold coin from this era, great care was taken when this coin was struck. The strike is needle-sharp, with all design elements very clear. Light hairlines are visible in the fields, but these are not as much as can be expected for this grade. Frosty devices show on both sides, as confirmed by the rare Cameo designation awarded by PCGS to this magnificent coin. Deeply mirrored fields make this coin a true eye-catcher, and a magnificent example of 19th century Proof gold coinage. |
