This coin type debuted in 1840, but 57 years later it seemed quaint and anachronistic. Still, the Coronet Head Liberty was not replaced until 1908! Designed by Christian Gobrecht, this coin was not struck at any other mint than Philadelphia after 1879. That's perhaps just as well, as the space below the eagle left little room for a mintmark, and those which carried a mintmark often had this letter overlapping other portions of the design.

By 1897, the quarter eagle was rarely seen in actual circulation. These coins were being produced primarily for holiday gift-givers and for coin collectors. Under these circumstances, it's surprising that not more collectors availed themselves of proof strikings; only 136 pieces were sold that year. A delightful cameo impression, this specimen's richly frosted devices contrast charmingly with its brilliant and deeply mirror-like fields. Fully struck throughout, this little jewel displays a faint mist of translucent toning.