1861 Conway Two-and-a-Half Dollar

Coin Details

Description

The 1861 J.J. Conway & Company Gold Quarter Eagle is the smallest denomination produced by this Colorado territorial coiner. John J. Conway operated in the mountain mining town of Georgia Gulch (also known as Parkville), located in the heart of the Pikes Peak gold region at an elevation of over 10,000 feet. The Conway quarter eagle features a distinctive design unique to this mint, with the firm's name and denomination prominently displayed. Conway coins are distinguished from Clark Gruber and Parsons issues by their mountain mining camp origin and their generally cruder execution, reflecting the more primitive facilities available at high elevation. J.J. Conway & Company's coining operations were among the most remote of any American private mint. The extreme altitude and harsh conditions of the mountain mining camps made every aspect of coining more difficult, from transporting equipment to maintaining consistent striking quality.

Rarity Notes

Very rare. Conway quarter eagles are estimated at 15-25 surviving examples. Auction prices typically range from $15,000 to $50,000.

Cross References

Kagin K-1; NGC #31194