1910 Indian Quarter Eagle. JD-1, the only known dies. Rarity-4. Proof-66 (PCGS). CAC.This lovely specimen readily reveals the fine satin finish characteristic of Proof 1909 and 1910 quarter eagles. Handsome deep gold patina throughout, the surfaces are fully struck and smooth enough to suggest an even higher grade.<p>The 1910 is the second of only two Satin Proof issues in the Indian quarter eagle series, this finish introduced in 1909 in an effort to improve sales to contemporary collectors who did not like the Sand Blast Proofs of 1908. In the end the new format proved just as unpopular, the Mint returning to a modified version of the sand blast finish in 1911, which continued in use with subtle texture changes through the series conclusion in 1915. The reason for the reversion to the sand blast finish seems to be a vote taken among attendees of the 1910 ANA Convention, which showed that that finish was more popular than its satin counterpart among contemporary numismatists.<p>The reported mintage of 682 pieces for the Proof 1910 bears no relation to the rarity of examples in todays market. Writing in the excellent new (2018) reference <em>United States Proof Coins, Volume IV: Gold</em>, John W. Dannreuther proposes that "a substantial number of the 682 quarter eagles struck in 1910 were likely spent by their buyers. And it [is] unlikely [that] many more than 100 Proof coins are extant today."<p>This is one of the finer certified survivors of this underrated issue, a lovely coin that will please even the most discerning gold enthusiast.