Lot 1154
1892. PCGS graded Proof 67 Deep Cameo CAC Approved. Only 1,245 minted. A fully white gem. The silvery luster on both sides twirls with a deep mirror effect, offsetting the satin texture imparted to the main devices by the dies. Our observation of the luster ends with a single word: superb! But pertaining to the devices, this coin was struck with methodical precision throughout the leaves in the hair ornament, the tiny letters in LIBERTY on the ribbon band also show their fine detail under magnification. Magnifying the reverse reveals the same majestic elegance of detail. This is the first year of issue.
The basic obverse design of the Charles E. Barber inspired silver coinage of 1892-1916 consisted of a Liberty head with a cap and wreath. This figure was inspired both by classical Greek and Roman models and by the designs of various 19th-century French coinage. The word "LIBERTY" appeared on the headband in incuse; since it wears relatively quickly in circulation, it is often used by numismatists to help determine the condition of circulated coins. The Liberty head is flanked by six stars on the left and seven on the right, and the motto "IN GOD WE TRUST" appears above it. The date is centered below the figure.
On the quarter and half dollar, a heraldic eagle, similar to that featured on the Great Seal of the United States, is the central reverse element, with "QUARTER DOLLAR" or "HALF DOLLAR" and the mint mark (if any) located beneath it. Proofs, of course, carry no mintmark as they were struck exclusively at the Philadelphia Mint. As on the Great Seal, the eagle carries a banner in its beak reading "E PLURIBUS UNUM", and the amount of the motto visible is helpful to numismatic graders in determining the condition of circulated specimens. A field of 13 stars (the same number as on the obverse, representing the 13 original American colonies) appears above the eagle, and on the top edge, "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" is inscribed. Pop 8; 2 finer in 68DCAM (PCGS # 95678) .
Estimated Value $6,000 - 6,500.
The Larry Shapiro Collection; Number One PCGS Registry Proof Barber Quarters Set.
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| Realized $8,050 |
