The 1849-D is a much scarcer issue than the 1843-D through 1848-D quarter eagles. But unlike most of these (with the exception of the 1847-D), it is sometimes seen with very good coloration. This is not the case in higher grades and any 1849-D twhich grades AU55 or higher aand has original color and surfaces is extremely hard to find.

This example has superb deep, rich green-gold and lighter reddish hues with somewhat darker color seen on the reverse. The obverse shows a good deal of remaining luster while the reverse has natural dirt trapped in the recesses. The strike is very sharp for the issue with boldly detailed centers and the surfaces are extremely clean. There is a tiny mint-made rim flaw on the obverse below the 1 in the date that I don’t find detracting.

There have been no slabbed AU55 examples of this date at auction since December 2010 (see pedigree, below). I note a non-CAC example in the inventory of another dealer for $4,764.

Dahlonega quarter eagles, regardless of date, are becoming very hard to find with this degree of originality and eye appeal.

Ex Heritage 12/10: 4309, where it sold for $4,025.

CAC has approved three in this grade and three in grades higher thaan this