Rare Proofs and Exceptional Scarcity in High Mint State Grades
A total of 114 proofs were struck. Proofs of this year are rarer than for other dates of this era, and an estimated four dozen or so are known today. Most grade in the PR63 to PR64 range, and true gems are very rare. Unlike earlier dates, the proofs of this year do not show strong contrast and are seldom, if ever, found with added eye appeal of deep cameo or ultra cameo contrast.
This date is scarce in MS62, MS63 and very rare in MS64. Through 2022, a dozen pieces have been graded MS64 by PCGS and NGC combined. Unlike the 1898, modest quantities of average quality uncirculated coins haven’t been located in overseas sources. Given this issue’s low mintage, it seems likely that it will remain rare in high grades. One coin has been seen by PCGS in MS65, and only one coin has been graded MS66+ by PCGS.
