R.3. The more available of the two 1804 quarter varieties for the year, this specimen is distinguished by an obverse that shows a gap between the 4 in the date and the truncation of the bust, star 1 close to but not touching the hair, and a die gouge between stars 8 and 9. The B-1 and B-2 share the same reverse. With only 6,738 coins struck, the 1804 is the key date of the four-year Draped Bust, Heraldic Eagle quarter series. Most extant coins are found in lower grades, as few examples were apparently saved at the time of issue. Most of the detail remains on this Choice VF specimen, with full rims and a well-centered planchet with golden light brown and gold toning over pleasing surfaces. A wonderful acquisition of this low-mintage issue for first-year type collectors.
B-3, R.2. A mostly brilliant example of this slightly better date. A hint of gold toning over unmarked fields and ample satin luster. Although a few left obverse stars are not fully struck, the coin is better struck than most seen. Some light obverse hairlines account for the grade.
B-3, R.2. A hint of light gray toning on an otherwise brilliant Bust quarter adds to its attractiveness. Luster dominates the borders. Late dies with a bold crack through star 12 and clashed arrowheads near stars 8 and 9.
B-1, R.2. Deep ocean-blue and olive toning embraces this lightly circulated Bust quarter. Luster shimmers from the legends, stars, plumage, and hair. The claws, curls, and cap display slight wear. An attractively toned example of this better date.
The key date to the series other than the non-collectible 1873-CC No Arrows. The 1870-CC Seated quarter, with a recorded mintage of 8,340 pieces, is in demand in all grades. This choice specimen has all the attributes of a higher grade. It has pinkish-gold surfaces that display extensive, grade-consistent wear, but no singular abrasions aside from a few thin marks on Liberty's legs and shield. The rims are full around both sides, LIBERTY is complete, and the mintmark is clear. A perfect collectors' coin in a very collectible grade.
Ex: Eliasberg. The 1872-S quarter (83,000 pieces minted) is rare and very difficult to locate in any condition. Indeed, NGC and PCGS have certified only 41 examples, ranging in grade from AG through Mint State. Noted Liberty Seated Quarter specialist, Larry Briggs assigns Uncirculated specimens an R.7 rarity rating (4 to 12 known). NGC and PCGS have certified 12 pieces, an unknown number that may be resubmissions. The current Select example displays satin-like luster, along with occasional splashes of gold-tan color. An attentive strike leaves strong definition on the design features. Indeed, except for minor softness in the hair atop Liberty's head, these appear to be fully delineated. Light, unobtrusive handling marks limit the grade. This is a sharp coin for the designated grade, and also has a great pedigree! Ex: Harlan P. Smith Collection (S.H. and H. Chapman, 5/1906; John H. Clapp; Clapp Estate, 1942, to Louis E. Eliasberg, Sr.; The Louis E. Eliasberg, Sr. Collection (Bowers and Merena, 4/1997), lot 1501