1796 25C B-2, R.3, AU55 PCGS. CAC....

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1796 Draped Bust Small Eagle Quarter
B-2 Variety, AU55 CAC
Scarce One-Year Type

1796 25C B-2, R.3, AU55 PCGS. CAC. Tompkins Die Stage 2/1. The iconic Scot-Eckstein Draped Bust Small Eagle design is shown in all its glory on this wonderful example. Recent extensive research published in Harry Salyards' excellent 2022 reference book Eagle Poised on a Bank of Clouds: The United States Silver Dollars of 1795-1798 refutes folklore and myth by presenting archival evidence for actual events. Gilbert Stuart and Anne Willing Bingham were never involved with the Draped Bust design. Talented sculptor John Eckstein did provide two wax models for the 1795 Draped Bust dollar design. Chief Engraver Robert Scot provided final engraving of the master die designs, for both the obverse portrait and reverse eagle "poised on a bank of clouds" for the dollar, along with precise reductions in design for all silver denominations, including the quarter dollar featured in this auction.

There are two die pairings for the 1796 quarter, this is the more frequently found, but still scarce, B-2 die marriage with the diagnostic high 6 in the date. The reverse working die was used on both varieties. Most specimens of the B-2 variety, including this example, are of the earlier die stages without the obverse die cracks.

This Draped Bust quarter dollar has a good strike on most devices, but with the usual weakness in the eagle's head from incomplete metal flow. Only scattered and small toned-over marks are found from it's brief time in circulation. The eye appeal is outstanding on both the obverse and reverse of this superb coin, with a crust of antique gray toning that deepens to blue and violet shades, especially on the reverse. Incessant demand from type collectors will provide spirited bidding on this exceptional example. Housed in a Generation 3.0 green label holder, appropriately approved by CAC. The famous 1796 Draped Bust quarter dollar has been awarded a listing in 100 Greatest United States Coins by Jeff Garrett.
From The Bruce S. Sherman Collection, Part II.

Coin Index Numbers: (NGC ID# 23RA, Variety PCGS# 38920, Base PCGS# 5310, GSID# 212663)

Metal: 89.24% Silver, 10.76% Copper
Weight: 6.74 grams
ASW: 0.19338oz
Mintage: 6,146

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