Pristine Finest Known PCGS Proof Half Eagle Highlighted in the James A. Stack, Sr. Collection

The James A. Stack, Sr. Collection Part II in February includes one of the most significant Proof Liberty Head gold coins of any denomination or date that we have ever brought to auction. Not only is this the single finest Proof 1899 certified by PCGS, but it is also the single finest PCGS-certified Proof in the entire Liberty Head half eagle series. It is the ultimate Proof type coin of the With Motto design and would also serve as a focal point in the finest specialized collection of classic U.S. Mint Proof gold coinage.

The mintage for the Proof 1899 half eagle is, fittingly, 99 coins, delivered in at least four batches throughout the year. This is a sizable total for an 1890s U.S. Mint Proof gold issue, but yearly mintages would increase dramatically with the turn of the century as more collectors became interested in these special coins. Even so, demand for complete Proof sets was strong enough in 1899 that more than half were sold or otherwise distributed that year. Many were subsequently preserved with the utmost care, further evidence of growing numismatic interest in Proof gold coinage during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

 The James A. Stack, Sr. specimen is at the threshold of numismatic perfection with surfaces that are virtually pristine both in-hand and when closely scrutinized with a loupe, as would be expected at the Proof 69 (PCGS) grade. Not only is the strike detail complete for even the most intricate design elements, but the finish is deeply cameo with strong contrast between thickly frosted motifs and highly reflective fields. The entire coin displays original medium golden-yellow color that appears to “go black” in the mirrored fields as the coin rotates away from direct lighting. Both the quality and eye appeal are exquisite, unmatched and unsurpassed by those of any Proof Liberty Head half eagle certified by PCGS. Its last auction appearance was more than a century ago, in Thomas L. Elder’s August 1921 sale of the Lewis C. Gehring, Esq. Collection. With no examples equal to or exceeding this piece in grade, quality or eye appeal, here is an incredibly important offering the most advanced U.S. gold coinage enthusiasts.

For more information about the Stack’s Bowers Galleries February 2026 Showcase auction visit StacksBowers.com. To consign your coins or paper money to one of our future sales call 800-458-4646 or email [email protected].