Until recent years, this issue was basically unknown in Mint State grades, and was considered to be very rare in About Uncirculated. Current population reports show a number of uncirculated examples graded, but it can be assumed that these numbers are heavily inflated by resubmissions.

In his reference on New Orleans gold coins, Douglas Winter notes the following on this issue:

In my opinion, the 1842-O quarter eagles that are well struck should be valued at levels considerably higher than their weakly struck counterparts.

Although the present coin is not totally fully struck, its strike is still considerable better than usually seen. Along the fact that it is among the higher graded pieces of this date, make this coin a wonderful and worthwhile investment until New Orleans quarter eagles will rise in price. Wholesome and very lustrous, with only the slightest signs on circulation on both sides.