1855-C Liberty Head Quarter Eagle. Winter-1, the only known dies. MS-60 (NGC).This endearing Southern gold coin is solidly graded at the desirable Brilliant Uncirculated level. Its surfaces retain nearly complete luster in a satiny texture, and even reveal modest semi-reflective qualities in the fields as the coin dips into a light. Both sides are well struck for this poorly produced issue, the central design elements quite sharp despite characteristic softness to the curls along Libertys brow, the shield, and the eagles plumage around that device. Pleasant medium honey-orange color with a tinge of pale olive, an impressively smooth appearance in hand further enhances the appeal of this premium MS-60 example.<p>Produced to the extent of just 3,677 pieces, the 1855-C is the second rarest Charlotte Mint quarter eagle in terms of total number of coins believed extant. This ranking is per Doug Winter, <em>Gold Coins of the Charlotte Mint: 1838-1861</em> (2008 edition), who accounts for only 85 to 105 survivors in all grades. Mint State pieces are of the utmost rarity, and we suspect that fewer than 20 <em>different</em> coins are extant at this level. The present offering is earmarked for inclusion in an advanced Southern gold cabinet, in which it will serve as a leading highlight.PCGS# 7775. NGC ID: 25J5.NGC Census: 4; 13 finer (MS-65 finest).
