IMPORTANT PROOF-ONLY 1887 $5 GRADED PR64+ BY PCGS—ONLY FOUR OWNERS SINCE 1887!

Ironically, the 1887 is the most common Proof half eagle struck before 1890, but this is the sole Proof-only date of this type and it is amongst the rarest issues when one considers the total number known. And with this being a Proof-only issue, you either buy an 1887, or you have an incomplete set.

This coin has a direct pedigree (see below) back to the day it was made, and it was part of an original 1887 gold Proof set that was broken up in 1976.

A total of 87 coins dated 1887 were made (all Proofs), and around half of these (in the area of 40 to 50) are known, including a surprisingly large number of circulated or Impaired pieces.

This reflective example is covered with rich honey-gold color and the fields appear to be very reflective. There is a small water spot in the lower left obverse. The contrast is well above-average for the date and I think this coin might be re-designated as a Cameo if it were sent back to PCGS. For some reason unknown to gold coin specialists, true DCAM 1887 Proof half eagles are very rare.

Another PCGS PR64 (this one designated as a Cameo) sold for $72,000 as Heritage 1/2020: 4425.

Here is a rare opportunity to own among the most desirable dates in the entire Liberty Head half eagle date set.

CAC has approved a total of 14 in all grades combined. Coins with no modifier number a total of three and this includes one in PR61, one in PR64, and this one in PR64+

Ex Stout Collection via DWN (as agent); Stack’s Bowers 3/2017: 2452 ($76,375); from the Blue Moon Collection and earlier sold as Lot 532 in Stack’s 2/1979 auction of the Ellis Robison Collection. Purchased by that controller from the Garrett Sale (Stack’s, 3/1976) at $14,500. Purchased by T. Harrison Garrett directly from the US Mint in 1887 as part of a complete Proof set.

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