Item Description:
A classic rarity as a proof-only issue, the 1863 Proof Quarter Eagle hails from a mintage of just 30 pieces, far less than the popular 1848 Cal. or the 1854-S issues (mintage of 1,389 and 246 respectively). In addition, many, perhaps as many as half according to research went unsold by the mint and were melted as a result. Of this estimate of 15 survivors, 2 reside in the Smithsonian collection. Thus, the rare issue is even scarcer than most would expect. This amazing example is the finest graded by either service and is truly high-end for the grade. A true treasure of numismatics, it ranks as #88 in the book "100 Greatest US Coins" by Jeff Garrett and Ron Guth.According to our research, this example has never appeared for sale publicly in auction and we are proud to present it as one of our favorite offerings to handle in recent years. CAC approved for quality and eye appeal. CAC approved for quality.