1999-W $5 American Gold Eagle, Struck with Unfinished Proof Dies NGC "Modern Numismatic Masterpieces/Anna Cabral Auto" MS70
Year: 1999
Mint: West Point
Metal: 0.1091 oz - .9167 Fine Gold (22 karat)
Designation: Unfinished Proof Dies Error
Grade: MS70
Signature: Anna Escobedo Cabral
A rare numismatic treasure, the 1999-W $5 American Gold Eagle, Struck with Unfinished Proof Dies, certified MS70 by NGC with the exclusive "Modern Numismatic Masterpieces" Anna Escobedo Cabral Autograph label, is a collector’s dream. Struck at the West Point Mint, this 1/10-ounce gold coin is a celebrated error from the American Gold Eagle series, inadvertently produced with unpolished proof dies, resulting in a unique semi-prooflike finish. With an estimated mintage in the low thousands—compared to the standard bullion’s 2.7 million—this error coin is a standout rarity. The autographed label by Anna Escobedo Cabral, 42nd Treasurer of the United States, enhances its prestige, tying it to Stephen Pfeil’s Modern Numismatic Masterpieces and the legacy of U.S. coinage. Perfect for collectors seeking scarcity, artistry, and historical intrigue.
A Rare Error in a Landmark Series
Launched in 1986 under the Gold Bullion Coin Act, the American Gold Eagle series blends bullion investment with numismatic appeal. The 1999-W $5 Gold Eagle with Unfinished Proof Dies is an accidental masterpiece, created when unpolished proof dies were mistakenly used for bullion production. This error yields a hybrid coin with partially mirrored fields and incomplete frosted relief, distinct from the standard satin-like bullion finish. Discovered post-release by vigilant collectors, its exact mintage remains unknown but is estimated in the low thousands, making it exponentially rarer than its standard counterpart. Released in 1999, a year marked by the State Quarters program’s debut, this error gained fame as grading services like NGC certified it with special error notations. The Cabral-autographed label connects it to her 2004-2009 tenure, a period of significant numismatic innovation, cementing its status as a modern rarity.
The Prestige of the “W” Mint Mark
Bearing the coveted “W” mintmark of the West Point Mint, this Gold Eagle signifies exceptional quality and scarcity. West Point’s reputation for premium strikes elevates this error coin, distinguishing it from high-mintage Philadelphia bullion issues. The combination of the “W” mintmark, error status, and MS70 grade marks it as a pinnacle piece in the Gold Eagle series, coveted by collectors and error enthusiasts alike.
Iconic American Design
This coin showcases two timeless designs that embody American heritage:
-
Obverse: Augustus Saint-Gaudens’ Liberty, adapted from the 1907 Double Eagle, strides forward with a torch in her right hand and an olive branch in her left, the U.S. Capitol at her feet. “LIBERTY” arcs above, with “1999” and the “W” mintmark below. The unfinished proof die imparts a semi-mirrored field, with Liberty’s gown and torch glowing subtly against a satin-like backdrop, distinct from standard bullion.
-
Reverse: Miley Busiek’s family of eagles—a male soaring with an olive branch toward a nesting female and eaglets—symbolizes unity and strength. Inscriptions include “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA,” “E PLURIBUS UNUM,” “IN GOD WE TRUST,” “1/10 OZ. FINE GOLD,” and “5 DOLLARS.” The error finish softens the cameo contrast, with uneven polish highlighting the eagles’ textures uniquely.
-
Edge: Reeded, complementing the coin’s hybrid aesthetic.
The unfinished proof dies create a mesmerizing effect, blending bullion’s luster with proof-like elegance, making this coin a visual and historical standout.
Certified Perfection with “Modern Numismatic Masterpieces” Label Autographed by Anna Escobedo Cabral
Graded MS70 by NGC, this coin achieves flawless perfection, with no imperfections under magnification. The "Modern Numismatic Masterpieces" label, autographed by Anna Escobedo Cabral, adds unparalleled prestige, tying it to Stephen Pfeil’s book celebrating 21st-century rarities and Cabral’s influential tenure as U.S. Treasurer. The semi-prooflike finish enhances Saint-Gaudens’ and Busiek’s designs, their details radiant on the .9167 fine gold surface, making this coin a true collector’s gem.
