Cert # 2164728-001

Coin Number 156

Here is a truly rare issue, only 20 pieces were struck in Proof in 1877, and today between 7 and 9 are known, two of which are impounded! This is one of the very finest certified examples, offering dazzling frost on the devices as contrasted by the deep, deep reflectivity of the fields. The fields today show a bit of haze, typical of these early–original–Proofs. Identifiable by a tiny planchet flake off Liberty’s neck right behind the lower tip of her lovelock. Notice some minute raised dots on Liberty’s head, these are from light die rust that appear on all known Proofs from these dies. The reverse die, first seen in 1866 was only used to coin Proof eagles, and continues here through 1880, one of the longer uses of any die at the Mint. This has been confirmed by noted researcher John Dannreuther.

Ex Kaufman/(probably) Ely