1870 Liberty Head Quarter Eagle. JD-1. Rarity-7- as a Proof. Proof-66 Deep Cameo (PCGS).This is an absolutely mesmerizing example of this Reconstruction-era rarity. The complexion glows with vibrant golden-wheat shades and hints of warmer patina at the rims. Richly frosted luster blankets the design elements and remains entirely untroubled, contrasting intensely with the deeply mirrored fields. The strike is incredibly sharp and the surfaces are virtually free of any handling. A few scattered lint marks in the fields are virtually diagnostic to Proofs of this era. This piece ranks as the sole finest certified by PCGS in any Cameo designation, making it an irresistible treasure for the advanced Registry Set participant. Similarly, no examples have been certified finer at NGC in any designation. It is a visually stunning jewel that matches superior preservation with significant rarity. The Proof 1870 quarter eagle is a tremendous rarity in all grades and only an estimated 10 to 12 distinct survivors are known. With a tiny production figure of just 35 examples, the 1870 is from an era of low-mintage issues that was seen during the Civil War and the two decades that followed. Researcher John Dannreuther notes that the first delivery of 25 coins occurred on February 3rd, while the remaining 10 coins we not delivered until that summer on June 1st. The obverse die was used to strike both the 35 Proofs and the 4,520 circulation-strikes for the year, and very few coins exhibit the strong cameo contrast of the present piece. In addition, most examples are limited to grades of Proof-65 and below due to cabinet friction and other imperfections, making this Proof-66 DCAM (PCGS) a true prize among connoisseurs. Proof quarter eagle mintages began to swell in the late 1880s and 1890s, and these are the dates typically included in type sets by todays collector. In contrast, Proof 1870 quarter eagles remain remarkably elusive and "almost never appear in auction or on the floors of major conventions." as explained by Dannreuther. The present offering is an historic opportunity and sure to attract significant attention from specialists!PCGS# 97896. NGC ID: 287R.
