NNP

1869 $3 Three Dollar, Judd-773, Pollock-858, R.7, PR65+ Cameo NGC. CAC. Design. The regular dies three dollar gold piece struck in aluminum with a reeded edge. Commentary. Possibly as many as half a dozen aluminum impressions are known, originally distributed in cased aluminum proof sets including all denominations issued in 1869. This is the first single example of this pattern variety that we have handled since August 1996, when a PR64 PCGS specimen appeared in our ANA sale. NGC has certified two examples as PR64, along with the Newman PR65+ Cameo. Two examples are also certified PR64 PCGS. Physical Description. This Gem Cameo proof is underrated and in our opinion, a borderline Ultra Cameo specimen. The light gray surfaces have deeply mirrored fields showing only minuscule contact marks under magnification. Both sides have intricate and bold detail with frosty luster on the devices, resulting in extraordinary eye appeal. From The Eric P. Newman Collection.

From Newman I (Heritage Auctions, 4/2013), lot 3975, realized $17625.00. Image and description courtesy of Heritage Auctions, https://ha.com.