Variety 1-A. The more common of the two varieties.

The 1839-D has dual numismatic significance as it is the first quarter eagle from this mint and the only one that uses the popular Classic Head design. It is not a really rare issue but it is extremely popular and it has become very difficult to locate in EF grades with natural color and surfaces.

Most 1839-D quarter eagles are seen with very weak central details as a result of the newness of this design and the fact that inexperienced personnel were making these coins. The central details seen on this piece are surprisingly sharp and the coloration is a pleasing deep, even green-gold with some orange overtones. There are a few stray marks including one of the cheek and a few over the beak on the reverse but the overall appearance is excellent for the date and grade.

The last EF45 example to sell at auction was a PCGS coin offered as Heritage 12/10: 4291; it brought $6325 and was not approved by CAC. Only one other EF45 has sold at auction since the beginning of 2009.

The demand for choice branch mint Classic Head gold has increased exponentially in the last few years and very few choice, original EF examples exist. This 1839-D quarter eagle should see considerable interest.

CAC has approved three in this grade with six finer.