The Proof 1897 Indian cent is an underrated rarity among the
late dates from this series. From a mintage of 1,938 pieces, 731 were intended
for sale in conjunction with the year’s silver Proof sets, while the remaining
1,207 examples went into minor coin Proof sets. Today, the Proof 1897 cent is
most often found in grades up to Proof-64, with many having been cleaned or
mishandled over the past century. Gems are sold at auction only a couple times
per year, and those with any traces of Cameo contrast are incredibly rare.
We are delighted to feature a truly special Proof-67+ Deep
Cameo (PCGS) CAC 1897 cent in our March 2021 Showcase Auction. It is the sole
finest Deep Cameo Indian cent certified by PCGS across all dates and color
designations. In addition, it is the only Deep Cameo example approved by CAC
across all services, confirming its truly superior quality.
Both sides are golden-orange in color, with the peripheries
enhanced by blushes of vivid reddish-rose. The reflective fields contrast
markedly with richly frosted devices. Struck from the Snow-PR3 dies, it is
readily attributable by a die line in the denticles below the digit 9 in the
date and a bulging upper pendant on the letter E in CENT. Expertly produced and
just as carefully preserved, this sharp and lovely 1897 Proof cent is sure to
appeal to specialists and advanced Registry Set participants.
This incredible Proof-67+ Deep Cameo (PCGS) CAC 1897 cent will
be featured in our March 2021 Auction, accompanied by many important coins
including Small Eagle Draped Bust half dollars from the E. Horatio Morgan Collection,
spectacular Peace dollars from the Pittstown Collection, and New Orleans Mint
rarities from the Collection of Steve Studer. The sale will be available for
viewing and bidding on our website www.StacksBowers.com
and printed catalogs will also be available for purchase. If you would like to
consign to an upcoming sale or have questions about the consignment process,
please contact us today at [email protected]
or 800-566-2580.
