RARE 1853-D QUARTER EAGLE

Variety 17-N.

Only 3,178 quarter eagle dated 1853-D were produced and it is believed that around 100 or so exist today. Around three dozen of these exist in AU grades but most are low end and few show original color and choice surfaces.

This choice green-gold example is among the most cosmetically appealing circulated 1853-D quarter eagles I have seen or owned. It is uncommonly well struck with much better detail at the centers than usual while the surfaces are virtually unmarked. Both sides show very pleasing natural color and it is likely this has never been brightened or “improved.” As such, it is very rare.

There have been but two AU55 1853-D quarter eagles sold at auction since the start of 2006. Both were graded by NGC and neither was CAC approved. One sold for $4,406 in January 2013 while the other realized $4,600 in October, 2011.

To significantly improve on this piece, you’d likely have to spend in the five-figures. For many collectors, this is the perfect 1853-D quarter eagle.

CAC has approved this one piece in AU55 with five finer. Only six in total have been approved for the date.