1871-S Liberty Seated Quarter. Briggs 1-A, the only known dies. MS-62 (NGC). A pleasantly toned example with warm golden patina that is more even and extensive on the reverse. Both sides sport soft mint luster to surfaces that present as uncommonly smooth for the assigned grade. Well struck with all but a few isolated peripheral features fully defined.<p>The 1871-S is an extremely underrated coin in a series that is replete with scarce and rare issues, many of which are particularly challenging even in lower Mint State grades. The original mintage was 30,900 pieces at a time when San Francisco Mint silver coins were struck for one purpose: to circulate. And circulate this issue did, for survivors are elusive in all grades and, when encountered, are apt to be heavily worn, often with damage or other impairments. The 1871-S is actually nearly as rare in all grades as the more highly regarded 1871-CC, this despite the fact that the Carson City Mint issue has a mintage one third that of its San Francisco Mint counterpart (10,890 pieces). As more collectors begin to appreciate the elusive and conditionally challenging nature of early S-Mint silver coinage, with some even rising to the challenge of assembling a complete set of Liberty Seated quarters, coins like this Mint State 1871-S are sure to increase dramatically in desirability. A significant condition rarity that would serve as a centerpiece in an advanced numismatic holding. PCGS# 5480. NGC ID: 23UP. NGC Census: 4; 10 finer (MS-66 finest). From David Lawrences sale of the Richmond Collection, Part III, lot 1474.
