Description |
FROM THE NAPLES COLLECTION OF EARLY GOLD PART I
This is one of those coins that makes numismatics so interesting! There is a die line within the 2, leading early numismatic researchers to believe that the 1802 quarter eagles (all struck with the same obverse die) were overdates. David Akers noted “Although ‘2 Over 1’ overdates in most series are generally very distinct, such is not the case with this quarter eagle, and on many specimens, I have seen, one must use a little imagination to see the overdate.” Harry Bass, it is said, “realized that the ‘overdate’ status of this die was questionable.” And John Dannreuther said further, “most researchers have come to the conclusion that whatever is under the 2 is not the vestiges of the 1.” The footnote says, “A defective 2 punch or break is now considered the likely culprit for the 1 below the date.”
Three die marriages were used to strike the 3,035 quarter eagles, all struck using this obverse. This coin was struck from BD-1, is the more available, listed as Rarity-4, with 90-120 estimated to survive. This variety is known as the “spike shield,” so named for the die line that extends from the upper left corner of the shield into the eagle’s wing.
This is a totally original and CHOICE example. The eye appeal is beyond what is typically seen for this grade on an early gold piece. The color is rich with a gentle greenish-gold undertone and a warm orange-gold glow overtone. A brilliant, satiny mint bloom truly captivates the eye, while the reverse boasts a hint of semi-reflective flash in the central fields. Nicely struck up, with just a hint of softness on the eagle’s head. Free of any friction, free of any serious marks, we note some mint made planchet adjustment marks at the lower right obverse. The visual allure is truly remarkable on this impressive and beautiful Mint State early quarter eagle.
PCGS 4, NGC 3, CAC 1. This is the most recent example to sell in auction, realizing $48,000 in the 2020 FUN Auction. The PCGS Price Guide value is $57,500 and the CAC CPG value is $52,800. VERY RARE any finer, PCGS has graded just 10 higher, most clustered in MS63, and none have sold in nearly 13 years! Indeed, we believe that any PCGS/CAC in MS63 would cost into the six figures today! This is a fantastic opportunity to add a gorgeous example to your early gold collection without breaking the bank. Good luck!
Cert. Number 5648897
PCGS # 7650
|