1879 Pattern Washlady Quarter Dollar. Judd-1590, Pollock-1783. Rarity-6+. Silver. Reeded Edge. Proof-66+ (PCGS). CAC. Obv: Chief Engraver Charles E. Barbers Washlady or Society Lady motif with a left facing head of Liberty. Liberty is wearing a headband inscribed LIBERTY and ornamented with ears of wheat, cotton leaves and bolls. Thirteen stars are arranged around the border seven left, six right with the motto IN GOD WE TRUST above and the date 1879 below. Rev: An eagle with outstretched wings clutches an olive branch in its right talon and three long arrows in its left talon. The Latin motto E PLURIBUS UNUM is inscribed in the field directly above the eagle, the legend UNITED STATES OF AMERICA is above the motto, and the denomination QUAR DOLLAR is inscribed along the lower border. This beautifully toned Gem has olive, pearl gray, mauve and cobalt blue patina with iridescent undertones of reddish-pink, antique gold and powder blue. The cameo finish is not mentioned on the PCGS holder, but is readily evident with of direct lighting. Overall fully struck with superior technical quality and outstanding visual appeal.This is a perennially popular pattern type and is one of Charles Barbers best and most famous works. The premium Gem example offered here is among the absolute finest available for collectors, a coin that is worthy of very strong bidding. Patterns have intrigued numismatists for generations, as they represent what could have been. Many of the most important collections sold have had extensive pattern selections, including those of King Farouk, Garrett, Eliasberg, and Bass. Pattern issues can be broken down into three major categories: design trials, die trials, and metallurgical trials. The first category contains coins like the presently offered Washlady quarter; specimens that were produced to test proposed designs. Obviously since the Liberty Seated quarter continued to be struck through 1891, the Washlady design was not adopted. Patterns in this category are generally collected as one would collect regular issue U.S. type coins.This beautiful example of an exquisite and popular pattern type will delight its next owner and hold a place of prominence in another world class cabinet. From Heritages sale of the Harold Hoogasian Collection, January 2003 FUN Signature Sale, lot 9940; Ira & Larry Goldbergs Pre-Long Beach Coin and Currency Auction of January 2004, lot 3095.
