1892 Barber Quarter. Type I Reverse. MS-68 (PCGS). While there are certainly many Mint State 1892 quarters from which to choose in todays market, most of which are attractive for the grade assigned by PCGS or NGC, the present example has few equals in terms of either technical quality or eye appeal. Both sides are beautifully toned, the obverse a bit more reserved than the reverse in a blend of antique copper, silver gray, pinkish-apricot and powder blue iridescence. The reverse is exceptionally vivid and sports swirls of salmon pink, emerald green, cobalt blue, orange-apricot and reddish-gold to a base of antique copper. Highly lustrous throughout, direct lighting calls forth intense semi-reflective tendencies from the fields. Full striking detail and virtually pristine surfaces round out a truly impressive list of physical attributes for this enchanting Superb Gem.The Barber quarter debuted in 1892 with circulation strike mintages from the Philadelphia, New Orleans and San Francisco mints, as well as a delivery of 1,245 Proofs from the Pennsylvania facility. With a mintage of 8,236,000 coins and an above average rate of survival as a first year issue, the circulation strike 1892 is one of the most popular type candidates in this series. This gorgeous coin would do justice to the finest cabinet.The Type I Reverse hub was used only in 1892. It is identifiable by looking at the letter E in UNITED, whose crossbar is plainly visible. On the Type II and III Reverse hubs, the tip of the eagles wing covers the crossbar. From Heritages Long Beach Signature Auction of February 2006, lot 962.
