LOT Heritage Rare Coin Galleries  /  2006 November Signature Coin Auction #420  / 

2143

1888 $3 MS66 PCGS. The 1888 is one of many issues with

Currency:USD Category:Coins & Paper Money / US Coins Start Price:1.00 USD Estimated At:1.00 - 1,000,000.00 USD
1888 $3 MS66 PCGS. The 1888 is one of many issues with
<B>1888 $3 MS66 PCGS.</B></I> The 1888 is one of many issues within the three dollar series with enticingly low mintages. Only 5,000 pieces were struck, which, if put into perspective, is only 5% of the mintage of the 1893-S dollar. It is true that the 1888 circulated little, since survivors are more often found in Mint State than in worn condition. It is also true that the majority of the issue has likely been melted, since the combined NGC and PCGS population is less than 1,000 pieces, which undoubtedly includes a large number of resubmissions over the past twenty years. The MS62 to MS64 grades account for a sizeable portion of Uncirculated 1888 examples. Gems are scarce, and Premium Gems are rare. Speculators often gravitate toward the 1888 because of its low mintage, which is only about 6% of the 1878 type coin. Yet the 1888 trades for only a small premium above type prices. Shrewd gold type collectors often select the 1888, since it provides greater value than the 'common' 1878.<BR> This splendid representative possesses rich apricot toning that is deepest across the open fields. The strike is penetrating, even on the plumes of the headdress and the knot of the bow, which are sometimes mushy on this denomination. As one would expect from the MS66 grade, Liberty's cheek is refreshingly unabraded, and the obverse field is also clean. On the reverse, contact is minimal aside from a couple of minor grazes relegated to the periphery near 9 o'clock. UNITED is strongly die doubled, a diagnostic for business strikes of the date. This lustrous Premium Gem would make a suitable contribution to a high grade gold type set, and would also set a lofty standard for a date collection of the series. Population: 26 in 66, 2 finer (10/06).<BR><BR><b>Shipping:</b> Coin/Currency (<a target="_blank" href="http://www.heritageauctions.com/common/shipping.php">view shipping information</a>)
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