Lot 1269
1864 Pattern Quarter Dollar. Silver, reeded edge. Judd-384. Pollock-452. Low Rarity 7. PCGS graded Proof 63. Pleasing even smokey grey toning. The same obverse die as that used for standard 1864 quarter dollars is here paired with a reverse design prepared by Anthony C. Paquet (who is famous among collectors by his extremely rare 1861-P and 1861-S Double Eagle variants). Most notable in the design is the placement of three arrows with extremely long shafts in the eagle's left talon (viewer's right). Choice and mirrored with natural satin frost on all devices. Pop 4; 2 in 64 (PCGS # 60555) .
Paquet did contract work for the Mint in early 1857, and on October 20 of that year joined the Mint staff as an assistant engraver. He remained in that post through early 1864, after which he returned to the private sector, but continued to do important commissions for the government, including two designs for Indian Peace medals. Paquet furnished the letter punches for certain patterns and possibly regular coins as well, one recorded shipment arriving in late May, 1857, although he could have done earlier work as well. Apparently, the same engraver made up punches for various denominations including the dime, quarter, and half dollar. However, these fonts were not used at the time for circulating coinage.
Paquet died in 1882, leaving a great legacy of pattern coins, some regular issues, and an illustrious group of medals including the Congressional Medal of Honor (authorized by President Lincoln on July 12, 1861).
Estimated Value $4,500 - 5,000.
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| Realized $3,220 |
