View source for File:US 1876 gold dollar SB1117-10131o.jpg

== Summary ==
Lovely Gem Cameo Proof 1876 Gold Dollar

1876 Gold Dollar. Proof-65+ Ultra Cameo (NGC).

This gorgeous gold dollar offers stark cameo contrast between satiny devices and highly reflective fields. The strike is full throughout, and even vivid orange-gold patina provides memorable eye appeal. Proof gold dollar production at the Philadelphia Mint amounted to 45 coins in 1876, the highest yearly total for the type from 1868 through 1880. We suspect that the increased mintage for this issue is due to the fact that the United States celebrated its centennial in 1876, and the Mint likely anticipated increased sales to collectors seeking numismatic keepsakes. In the end, however, sales proved to be only marginally greater than for other years during that era. With an estimate surviving population of only 22 to 28 coins (per PCGS CoinFacts), we suspect that no more than 30 or 35 examples were actually distributed to contemporary collectors. This is one of the finest specimens that we have handled in recent memory, a solidly graded Gem with superior eye appeal. It is a coin that would do justice to the finest numismatic cabinet.

NGC Census: 2; 5 finer in this category (Proof-67+ * Ultra Cameo finest).