1878 Proof Trade Dollar

Coin Details

Auction Record

$120,750 PR68 01-02-2006 Superior Galleries

Description

The 1878 Proof Trade Dollar is a proof dollar struck at the Philadelphia Mint, part of the Trade Dollars 1873-1885 series. With a mintage of 900, this is an extremely rare issue — the lowest mintage among 3 mint variants, representing only less than 1% of total production. The obverse features Liberty seated facing left, holding an olive branch extended to the viewer, with a sheaf of wheat behind and the reverse displays an eagle perched on a bale of goods, with an olive branch and three arrows. The final year of business-strike production. The 1878-CC with a mintage of 97,000 (many subsequently melted) is the key circulation-strike date. As a proof issue, this coin was struck multiple times on specially prepared polished planchets using polished dies, producing mirror-like fields and frosted design elements prized by collectors. Struck at the original U.S. Mint facility, in continuous operation since 1792. Estimated market value is approximately $4.1K. Struck in 90% silver, 10% copper, weighing 27.2 grams, 38.1 mm in diameter, with a reeded edge. Cataloged as PCGS #7058.