Hi, I used to collect U.S. coins, and am now considering a return to them, particularly gold. One topic that I always wondered about, but never really had a chance to ask anyone about 20 years ago, was the relative frequency of prooflikes in the Liberty $20 series. So, now that we have forums and Coin Talk, may I ask collectors of this series--what would you say is a "typical" percentage (if there is such a thing) of prooflike uncirculated Libertys for relatively common dates? 5%? 10%? Higher? Does the percentage vary widely by mint? Are there many specialist collectors of these prooflike coins? I haven't really seen much literature on them--is there any? I used to own a prooflike 1899-S that really had a deep cameo contrast between Liberty and the fields, which I thought was very unusual at the time, but again, this was 20 years ago, and I had far fewer examples available for comparison. Anyway, I'd like to hear any thoughts on this topic from gold collectors....thanks!
I don't think there is a universal percentage here. So I'd like to refer you to @LostDutchman he has been a dealer for the majority of his lifespan and he may be able to provide you with the knowledge you seek. In the meantime here is a new saint guadens I bought yesturday.
Thanks for your reply. I did happen to notice this week that there are several prooflike $20s on eBay in holders from NGC and ANACS designated "PL"; if the link works, here's one: http://www.ebay.com/itm/1894-S-20-D...15?pt=Coins_US_Individual&hash=item4ad35988d7. I have never seen a "PL" designated PCGS holder, however; perhaps they do not designate coins as such.
Beautiful coin....a Saint is also on my hit list! Looks like a nice strike. I just bought the Garrett/Guth book, and am poring over it trying to select the ideal date/mint for my budget.......
Though Doug Winter is more high end, his blog is informative if old gold is your thing. http://raregoldcoins.com/
I have seen perhaps a few dozen P/L gold Libs of all denominations in both PCGS and NGC holders, although only NGC designates them as such, as far as I know. There are some pretty surprising dates, and then some rather common dates among those I've seen, but I don't recall any particular date as being "readily available".
With just a bit of searching, 1904 $20s can be found prooflike. They bring a premium, but unless they are graded at least 62 the eye appeal suffers. The prooflike fields show every little hit and scuff.