1818 Capped Bust Quarter. B-2. Rarity-1. MS-65 (PCGS).This is a beautiful condition rarity from the scarce and underrated Large Diameter Capped Bust quarter series of 1815 to 1828. Brilliant centers are framed by vivid multicolored peripheral toning that is boldest along the right obverse border. Full satin luster is seen throughout, as is razor sharp to full striking detail.Throughout the earliest decades of U.S. Mint operations, the quarter saw only limited and sporadic production. As with all precious metal coins of the era, Draped Bust and Capped Bust quarters were not struck on government account but, rather, at the request of bullion depositors who specifically requested coins of this denomination. In the absence of the silver dollar, coinage of which was halted in 1804 on the order of President Thomas Jefferson, the half dollar became the most popular silver coin with bullion depositors. Consequently, few quarters were requested, and in many years none at all. The 1818 is the second date in the Capped Bust series that began in 1815, there being no examples of this type struck from 1816- or 1817-dated dies. This year did see a record mintage for an early quarter of 361,174 pieces, suggesting a sudden and seemingly fleeting interest in this denomination by at least one of the Mints silver bullion depositors. Even so, the 1818 quarter as an issue is scarce and, when offered at all, is apt to be well worn from considerable commercial use. This lovely example of the Browning-2 die marriage is tied with a handful of other MS-65s for Condition Census #3, confirming it as significant for high grade type as well as advanced variety purposes.