Lot 1234
1839 $2.50 Classic Head. PCGS graded Proof 62. Breen, when he originally wrote his epic Encyclopedia of United States And Colonial Proof Coins 1722-1977 stated that quarter eagles in proof were "unknown". A few years later, when Breen's Encyclopedia of United States Coins was published he noted that 3 were known of this date in proof. NGC hasn't graded any of this date in proof yet, and PCGS has graded 2 coins, both as PR62. Examination with a glass fails to locate distracting ticks or bumps, and the surfaces are very nice for the grade assigned. Perhaps the moderate hairlines discounted the grade to its rather moderate level. The coin is toned a rich gold color, and Liberty's face and cheek are especially nice.
The die diagnostics are the 839 all show mispunching or repunching, the eighth star shows heavy recutting, others very light, and a large centering dot is noted left of Liberty's ear, hidden a bit by the curl. On the reverse, we note a lump between the leaves where most of the branch or another leaf has virtually been lapped away, and a centering dot is located near the top of the shield on the second horizontal line.
Needless to say, this is an exceptionally rare coin in Proof, and this opportunity may not present itself for decades to come.
Estimated Value $65,000-UP.
No provenance information included, but we could find no record of this being offered in the last 5 years. Previously in the Ed Trompeter collection and sold privately.
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