 1864 Gem Brilliant Proof. Here is radiant example of one of the most elusive dates in the Half Dime series. This magnificent Proof displays strongly reflective liquid-glass fields and lightly frosted devices flushed with diffused tawny gold. Only 470 Proofs were struck, along with a supposed circulation strike mintage of 48,000. Modern researchers are certain that in reality the circulating coins numbered closer to 14,500, vastly increasing collector demand for the surviving Proofs. The late Walter Breen estimated that 80 to 100 circulation strikes are in existence at present.
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