1896-S Barber Quarter. MS-66 (PCGS). Here is an absolutely outstanding example of this well known and eagerly sought key date in the Barber quarter series. Both sides exhibit a full satiny mint luster and the fields are modestly semi-reflective. There is light iridescent gold toning that appears to drift toward the rims. The strike was delivered with pin point accuracy, calling forth full detail to all design elements. Expertly preserved and pristine in most areas, this lovely Gem stands tall among the highlights in the Barber quarter offerings from the Pogue cabinet.The 1896-S is the first of three key date issues in the Barber quarter series, with a mintage of just 188,039 pieces. Produced in an era when collecting mintmarked coinage was just beginning to gain momentum (Augustus G. Heatons <em>Treatise on Coinage of the United States Branch Mints</em> was published in 1893), most 1896-S quarters slipped quietly into circulation and remained there until worn out or lost. While low grade examples appear fairly regularly, problem free VF, EF and AU coins are highly elusive. Even rarer are Mint State survivors. The present Gem offers high grade and outstanding eye appeal and will be just right for an advanced collection of Barber coinage.Numismatists have identified two reverse dies for this issue. This coin was struck from the first reverse with the mintmark centered between the letters R in QUARTER and D in DOLLAR.
