1824/1 Quarter Eagle|1824/1 $2.50 NGC MS61 (BD-1, R-5)

1824/1 Quarter Eagle - 1824/1 $2.50 NGC MS61, BD-1, R-5 - Of great rarity and importance, this Mint-State Capped Head quarter eagle is among the finest known of the date. This date had a mere mintage of just 2,600 pieces, and all were struck from a single die pair. The obverse was overdated from a leftover 1821 die, which was the last year this denomination had previously been struck. The reverse die was previously used to strike all 1821 quarter eagles, but did not show any signs of use yet.

The total number of survivors of this issue has been estimated to be between 50 and 60 pieces in all grades. Most are in circulated grades, or were mistreated during the last 185 years, showing damage and signs of cleaning. Truly uncirculated examples, such as the present piece, are incredibly rare. Both PCGS and NGC have graded only a handful pieces finer, scarcely available to collectors.

The present piece is boldly struck, with all details on both sides being virtually complete. All radial stars in the stars are visible, and the under digit of the 4 is clearly visible as well, indicating that this is an early die state. Wholesome and totally original, the reverse is toned to a slight darker gold-green color, which adds to the effect of this coin. Unlike many other survivors of this rare issue, this coin was never dipped, adding to the great originality of this already wonderful capped bust gold coin.