Lot 1836
1822 Proof Quarter, Browning-1. High Rarity-7 or possibly Rarity-8 as a Proof. PCGS graded Proof 65. A foremost rarity in proof grade and virtually unobtainable this nice. The surfaces shows reddish gold toning on the obverse, with violet and blue at the borders.
The strike on the central devices is absolutely complete and full, although the stars show minor weakness at their centers on the radial lines, similar to the strike on the Eliasberg example. There are just three noted in the Pittman catalog that qualify as true proofs, as follows: 1). Eliasberg, ex Mills and Clapp; 2). The Pittman coin and present specimen is PCGS graded PR-65 and 3). The Newcomb I:596 believed to be the Cleneay (1890):1323 also PCGS graded PR-65. In addition to these three, there are two other proofs but they are the B-2 variety with the error reverse of 25/50 both of which are PCGS graded PR-65. Others have been called proofs in the past, but most are now believed to be prooflike mint state coins and not actual proof issues. Naturally, opinions vary, but any way you look at the known population of this date and variety, it remains a rare issue, and virtually unobtainable in proof grades save for the three coins noted above. Certain to be a major highlight of any collection which acquires it (PCGS # 5369) .
Estimated Value $100,000 - 125,000.
Ex: B. Max Mehl's Allenburger Collection, 3/48:76 at $42.50 and David Aker's sale of the John Jay Pittman Collection, 5/20/98:1278.
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