The 1883 is one of just three Liberty Head double eagles (along with the 1884 and the 1887) that are “proof-only” issues; i.e., there were no pieces made for circulation. It is the second rarest date of the entire Type Three design after the 1884. 

Expert’s Corner: 1883 Double Eagle

The 1883 double eagle is a great rarity that only a small number of Type Three collectors will ever hope to own. Examples now appear at the rate of about one per every one to two years, meaning that competition for the next few 1883 proofs is likely to be very heated.

Since this date was made only in a proof format, information about strike, surfaces, luster and coloration (as discussed throughout this book for business-strike issues) does not apply. 

Proof 1883 double eagles have a number of important diagnostic criteria that are found on all known examples. On the obverse, the date is centered between the bust and the border, and the numerals are even. On the reverse, the feathers at the back of the eagle’s neck show roughness, and the design element located below the beak of the eagle is fragmented from die polishing.

1883 Proof Double Eagle Rarity – Small Population, High Demand

This is a well-produced issue. The fields on uncleaned examples are deeply reflective; there is good contrast to the devices which comes nicely frosted. However, this date is exceedingly rare in deep cameo/ultra cameo, and only a small number have been designated as such by the services. Most are hairlined from past cleanings or light mishandling, but there are a decent number known in the PR64 to PR65 range.

For many years, it was believed that only 40 were struck. It was later learned that this number represented the number of coins sold for inclusion in 1883 proof sets. Another 52 were produced individually and were offered for sale to collectors.

It is likely that around 20 to 25 proof 1883 double eagles are known today. Of these, a few are impaired, and at least three or four are impounded in museum collections. Very few have been offered for sale in the last few years.

Most of the proofs, in this series, in the National Numismatic Collection of the Smithsonian Institution grade at least PR64 Cameo.