1866 Proof Quarter Pattern - J-537

Coin Details

Auction Record

$11,500 PR64 07-27-2008 Stack's

Description

An alternative die variety of the 1866 quarter pattern, differing from J-536 in some aspect of the motto placement or die preparation. The reverse design incorporates the IN GOD WE TRUST motto above the eagle, a configuration that would become the standard for Seated Liberty quarters from 1866 through the denomination's final year in 1891. As with all Reconstruction-era silver patterns, this piece was struck in the standard .900 fine silver composition and 6.25-gram weight established for the quarter denomination. Proof patterns of this type served a dual purpose: they allowed Mint officials to evaluate the design before committing to production dies, and they provided specimen examples for collectors and dignitaries who received annual proof sets and pattern assortments from the Philadelphia Mint.

Rarity Notes

R.6 to R.7. Estimated 10-20 examples extant.

Cross References

Pollock-3605