The 1831 quarter eagle is a legendary rarity in any grade, and the offering of one is always a special occasion. The coin shown here was classified by NGC as Proof-64 Cameo, the only piece at this level and with none finer. (as of March 2005). The coin shown is the famous coin from the Pittman Collection, catalogued by David W. Akers conservatively as "possible Proof—sold as a Proof in the 1948 'Memorable' sale, listed in Breen's Proof Encyclopedia, but further described as 'Very Choice Uncirculated,' but considered by some to be a Proof." Even David Akers, whose opinion we value especially highly, wasn't certain. Offered as Lot 1717 by David Akers in May 1998, the coin is described as Very Choice Uncirculated, but considered by some to be a Proof. In any event, it goes without saying that any 1831 proof Capped Head Left Quarter Eagle is downright rare.

The example to the left was offered by Stack's Bowers Galleries in the Richard C. Jewell Collection, where it did not meet the reserve.