1871 $2.50 PCGS MS63

As with most of the Reconstruction Era quarter eagles, the 1871 is a forgotten rarity that is typically seen in circulated grades. Only 5,350 were produced of which a few hundred are known. I believe that around 15 or so are known in Uncirculated (maybe less) and most are in the MS60 to MS62 range. This choice example has a fresh, vibrant appearance with great rose and orange-gold color. There are a few light scuffs in the fields and a faint reverse grease stain above and behind the head of the eagle. In the February Heritage Long Beach sale a comparable example (graded MS63 by NGC) brought $4,830. Coins like this seem like great value to me.