Quarter Eagle -> 1839/8-C

Vitae

  • Quarter Eagles 1838 - 1860
  • Classic Head 1838 - 1839
  • Diameter: 18.2 millimeters
  • Fineness: .900
  • Weight: 64.5 grains
  • Designer: William Kneass
  • Edge: Reeded
  • Coiner: John R. Bolton

This appears to be the first of the varieties struck in 1839 as it reuses an old 1838-C obverse. It is most easily identifiable by having the exact same reverse as seen on the 1838-C quarter eagle. Nearly every known example is weakly struck at the center and has heavily marked surfaces. The luster is often frosty and original, uncleaned pieces tend to show rich orange-gold color. It has been estimated that approximately 75% of all the surviving 1839-C quarter eagles are the overdate variety.

Condition Census

  1. Michigan collection, possibly ex Stack's 12/78 (Bareford): 82, Numismatic Gallery World's Greatest Collection (F.C.C. Boyd), 1/46: 189. Graded Mint State-63 by NGC. 9/8 variety.
  2. Paul Dingler collection, ex Doug Winter/Lee Minshull, Elrod collection. Graded Mint State-61 by PCGS. 9/8 variety.