Lot 716
1808. PCGS graded AU-50. CAC. BD-1. Premium Quality. Some of original luster remain within the design recesses, illuminating a hint of tone. Strongly detailed, especially for the hair, feathers, and shield details. Free of adjustment marks and showing a great eye-appeal. This is an amazing rarity, only 2,710 piece were struck for circulation and this is a one year type coin. Quarter eagles were not struck after this 1808 until 1821 when the design changed. Thus type collectors must obtain one of these elusive 1808 quarter eagles to complete their type collections. Today perhaps 125 to 150 are known in all grades, and this one is nearer the top coins than average.
Designed by John Reich, who came to the Philadelphia Mint 1807 for a decade of service, Reich redesigned all of our coins during his tenure. This quarter eagle is reflective of his half dollar design launched in 1807 with a bold cap on Liberty which is inscribed LIBERTY, and her head faces left and is wearing a dress that has a clasp on her shoulder. Her hair tumbles down in loose curls, and the is surrounded by thirteen stars with the date below her bust. For the reverse Reich chose a standing eagle with wings outstretched, his breast covered by a sturdy shield, and in each claw is clasped the arriws for war (in his left claw), while the preference for peaace is noted in the right claw of the olive branch Surrounding the eagle is UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, and just above his head is E PLURIBUS UNUM on a raised ribbon. Below the eagle is 2 1/2 D for the denomination. Reich's design is nothing short of elegant and captures the Federalist time period in all its glory. This is one of the most sought-after type coins in the entire catalog of United States issues for its rarity and importance. Just graded for the first time at PCGS, a very nice example for the given grade. Pop 8; Only 43 finer examples at PCGS, the best being an incredible MS-65. Estimated Value $100,000 - UP
The Americana Collection.
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| Realized $174,000 |
