1887 Three-Dollar Gold Piece. Proof-66 Cameo (NGC).

1887 Three-Dollar Gold Piece. Proof-66 Cameo (NGC).，A handsomely preserved example of this Gem Proof $3 displaying uniform khaki-gold hues. Each side showcases considerable Cameo contrast, with deeply mirrored fields set against richly frosted devices. Weakness is apparent at the bow knot and the first two digits of the date, as is typical from Proofs of this issue. An overall pleasing example with exceptional preservation.<p>The three dollar gold piece was introduced as a denomination in 1854. They were designed by James B. Longacre who placed a rather fancy Native American headdress upon Libertys head for the obverse with the reverse designs that include an open agricultural wreath with the denomination and date within. The original intention was that these $3 coins would be used to buy a full sheet of 100 three cent stamps -- the going rate for postage then. The Proof mintage for the 1887 issue is reported at 160 pieces, of which perhaps 100 or so survive. A few are even known to have been struck first in medallic alignment and then overstruck in coin alignment to correct the error! The present example is among the finest survivors of the issue, with only 4 pieces graded finer by NGC in the Cameo designation.，，