Exquisite Proof 1843 Quarter to be Offered at Auction!

Dallas, Texas: For whatever reason, the mintage of proof quarters in 1843 was limited to a mere handful. Some experts report that as few as 10 examples were minted, and estimates of the number of survivors range from five to eight. In any event, the 1843 quarter is an exceedingly rare coin in proof state, and one much prized by collectors.

"The PR64 example being offered in our upcoming Signature auction comes out of John J. Pittman's 1843 proof set," said Greg Rohan, President of Dallas-based Heritage Auction Galleries. "A tiny mark on Liberty's upper right (left facing) shoulder, two more such ticks on Liberty's right breast, a minute toning spot above the eagle's head, and another between the E of AMERICA and the upper part of the left wing, are all distinctly visible on the present coin and on the one in the proof set. The design elements are boldly struck, and yield a strong contrast with the mirrored fields. Both sides are covered in beautiful sky-blue and gold-tan colors that take on a dappled appearance. A few wispy, unobtrusive hairlines in the fields are only visible under high magnification."

"Overall, this is an outstanding example of this rare issue," Rohan said, "both from the standpoint of technical quality and aesthetic appeal, and one that is pedigreed to a notable numismatist. It was a remarkable feat for Pittman to have acquired two of the five known specimens for his collection, an accomplishment that will be difficult to duplicate. In any event, the bidder that wins this lot will have obtained one of the most desirable pieces of 19th century American coinage."

Heritage Auction Galleries will offer the 1843 25C PR64 NGC in their upcoming Signature Auction, to be held July 7-8, 2006 in Dallas, Texas.

Images, descriptions, and prices realized from all of Heritage's previous auctions are available in the Permanent Auction Archives at the Heritage website

To reserve your copy of a catalog for any upcoming Heritage auction, please contact Nicole Jewell, c/o Heritage Auction Galleries, 3500 Maple Avenue, 17th Floor, Dallas, TX 75219, or call 1-800-872-6467, ext. 272.