1891 Proof Quarter Pattern - J-1761

Coin Details

Description

Judd-1761 is the unique proof pattern quarter dollar from the 1891 Barber design competition, representing Charles Barber's sole known pattern for the quarter denomination. The obverse features Barber's Liberty Head facing right, adorned with a laurel wreath and Phrygian cap, with UNITED STATES OF AMERICA around the upper border, thirteen stars, and the date 1891 below. The reverse displays a heraldic eagle with spread wings bearing a national shield, clutching arrows in one talon and an olive branch in the other, with E PLURIBUS UNUM on a scroll above and QUARTER DOLLAR below. Like the dime pattern J-1760, this quarter incorporates nearly all of the design elements that would appear on the adopted 1892 production coinage, though with subtle differences. Notably, clouds appear on the reverse of this pattern that were removed before the production dies were finalized, mirroring the same design evolution seen on the half dollar where J-1762's clouds were eliminated in favor of J-1763's cleaner composition. While five different half dollar patterns survive, only one each of the dime and quarter patterns are known, suggesting Barber directed more experimental energy toward the largest denomination. The specimen resides in the Smithsonian Institution's National Numismatic Collection and has never entered private hands.

Rarity Notes

R-8. Unique. Single specimen in the Smithsonian National Numismatic Collection.

Cross References

Judd J-1761, Pollock P-1976