1890 Melbourne Proof Half Sovereign - PCGS PR65CAM

Australia, 1890 Melbourne Proof Half Sovereign -

Australia’s VIP and pattern gold coinage represents the pinnacle of Australian numismatics. All issues from 1853 to 1931 were minted in minuscule numbers, with the highest mintages for the most common issues being three, as in, three individual pieces. So exclusive is the series that only the most discriminating collectors and numismatists have owned an example, any example. The coin presented here, graded PCGS PR65CAM and dated 1890, is a proof-only year from Melbourne: No half sovereigns were minted for circulation that year, elevating the coin’s exclusivity. While the mintage is not known for certain, two coins have been sighted the last fifty years. A third coin is rumoured to exist, but to my knowledge has not been offered to the market. As a coin, this little piece of history is flashy and original, with undulant fields, a deep and contoured strike, and a presence that hypnotises. If you are eligible to purchase this coin, please contact us to express your interest.