The 1877 proof gold dollar is a very rare coin in any grade. This is the first example we have handled in at least seven years. Of the 20 proofs originally struck, estimates of survivors range from a low of 11-12 pieces (Taglione) to 12-14 (Breen). Genuine proofs, as opposed to first-strike business strikes, have the date slanting up to the right, and there is no lump on the cheek or jaw of Liberty.