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Description

1818/5 Capped Bust Quarter, B-1, MS65
Popular Guide Book Overdate

1818/5 25C MS65 PCGS. CAC. B-1, R.2. Lovely shades of golden-brown, magenta, and bluish-gray toning blanket the well-preserved surfaces of this spectacular Gem. This specimen is from a late state of the dies (Tompkins 3/6) so, although the design elements are strongly impressed, some detail has been lost to lapping. Some clash marks still show on both sides, and an extensive network of die cracks is evident on the reverse. Vibrant mint luster adds to the outstanding visual appeal.

Variety: This coin represents the B-1 variety, one of the 10 known varieties for the date. The B-1 is one of two overdate varieties, with the remnants of a 5 barely perceptible under the final 8. The I in PLURIBUS is positioned under the right side of the second T in STATES. Die evidence indicates both obverse and reverse dies for the B-1 variety were engraved in 1815 and stored until they were pressed into service in 1818, with an 8 punched over the final digit in the date. The same obverse die was later used to strike the 1818/5 B-3 variety. The B-1 is a reasonably available variety, always popular because of the overdate.

Population Data (5/14): PCGS has graded eight examples of the 1818/5 Capped Bust quarter in MS65, with two finer at MS66 (including both B-1 and B-3 overdate varieties). NGC has certified nine examples of the B-1 variety in MS65 under its Variety Plus program, with three specimens finer.

Heritage Commentary: A substantial mintage of 361,174 Capped Bust quarters was produced in 1818, following a three-year hiatus. The demand for quarters increased significantly during this period, as the equivalent Spanish coins of the two reales denomination were not seen as often in circulation as they had been in earlier years. The Spanish colonies in the New World were gradually asserting their independence from Spain during this time period (1810-1825), and the predominance of Spanish coins in international trade was waning. Accordingly, the demand for quarters was steadily rising in this country, resulting in the large mintage in 1818.

The present coin is an exceptionally attractive specimen of this popular 19th century overdate. This piece is in a late die state that Steve Tompkins evaluates as very scarce. We expect intense competition from advanced specialists when this lot is called. Housed in a green label holder.

Provenance: Purchased from RARCOA (7/1997).(Registry values: P3)

Coin Index Numbers: (PCGS# 5323, GSID# 5099)

Metal: 89.24% Silver, 10.76% Copper
Weight: 6.74 grams
ASW: 0.19338oz
Mintage: 361,174


View Certification Details from PCGS

View Certification Details from CAC sticker

Auction Info

Auction Dates
June, 2014
23rd Monday
Bids + Registered Phone Bidders: 18
Lot Tracking Activity: N/A
Page Views: 1,132

Buyer's Premium per Lot:
17.5% of the successful bid per lot.

Sold on Jun 23, 2014 for: $55,812.50
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