LIKELY FINEST KNOWN 1879-S QUARTER EAGLE

This is a numismatically significant issue as the final quarter eagle of any design produced at the San Francisco mint. The 1879-S is much scarcer than generally believed and it is rare in Uncirculated with around 12-15 known. I used to hoard this date when it was priced at a small premium over common dates and at one time had a group of nearly 40 pieces; these are long since sold.

I have seen only one other 1879-S quarter eagle which rivals this coin (see below) but I think the present example is the finest known. It is very frosty with lovely natural deep orange-gold and russet colors which deepen at the borders. A few scuffs in the obverse field keep this from status as a Gem but the coin’s freshness and wonderful appearance are clearly deserving of the “plus” grade assigned by PCGS.

The second finest known, graded MS64 by PCGS and approved by CAC, realized $16,400 as Heritage 11/14: 3919.

I can’t imagine a finer 1879-s quarter eagle than this and needless to say, this coin represents a wonderful opportunity for the serious Liberty Head quarter eagle specialist.

CAC has approved one in MS64 and one in MS64+.

Ex Heritage 2014 ANA: 5628 where it realized $20,001.

Sold August 2014 ANA Heritage Auction, lot 5628, $20,000.85.