The 1824/2 Capped Bust quarter is an incredible condition rarity among the early quarter issues of the U.S. Mint. Just a single die pair was employed to strike this issue, producing an estimated 16,000 coins according to series specialist Steve Tompkins. This pairing represents the only use of this overdated obverse die, though the reverse die had been used previously in 1823 and would go on to strike quarters in 1825 and 1828.
While somewhat available in circulated grades, the 1824/2 is incredibly scarce in Uncirculated grades, with just four confirmed Mint States examples known, in addition to one Proof specimen. The Eliasberg example ranks at the top of the Condition Census at MS-65 (NGC), trailed by the MS-64 (PCGS) Pogue example, the MS-62 (PCGS) Gardner coin, and the present MS-61 (PCGS) example. The current specimen was absent from the 2008 Tompkins census but was called "60+" on the 2010 census by Rea, Peterson, Karoleff, and Kovach, Jr. It was last offered at auction over 30 years ago as part of our (Stack’s) sale of the F. Dabney Caldwell, Jr. Collection in April 1988. Its appearance in our Spring 2019 Baltimore Auction will certainly be a significant opportunity for early quarter specialists.
This quarter displays smooth and lightly reflective surfaces across both sides, with rich frost blanketing the design elements. The patina is deep and original, showcasing a blend of gold, indigo, and magenta across each side.
This MS-61 (PCGS) example will be a highlight of our Official Auction of the 2019 Whitman Coin & Collectibles Spring Expo. If you would like to showcase your coins or collection alongside this impressive rarity, call 800-458-4646 or e-mail Info@StacksBowers.com to speak to a numismatic expert today.
