In 1820, a quarter dollar was the typical cost for attending
theatrical events and similar entertainments in New York City, events that
today might cost tens or even hundreds of dollars. Alongside the half dollar,
the quarter was a workhorse of everyday commerce and most examples that left
the Mint wound up heavily worn within a few years.
We are delighted to offer one of the most spectacular 1820
Capped Bust quarters in our March 2021 Las Vegas Auction. Graded MS-66 (NGC),
it ranks as the sole finest known of the 1820 Browning-4 variety. Delightful golden-tan patina dominates this
Gem, revealing vibrant splashes of olive-gold and turquoise-blue iridescence around
the design elements. The eye appeal is strong, and the surfaces are lovely,
even under a glass. A light prooflike shimmer is noted in the field contrasting
with more satiny luster on the devices.
This quarter offers a provenance that can be traced to some
of the most prominent numismatists of the past century. It was purchased
privately by John M. Clapp from the Chapman brothers in January 1900 and was
later sold to Louis E. Eliasberg Sr as part of the Clapp Estate in 1942. We
first offered this piece in our April 1997 sale of the Eliasberg Collection,
where it was recognized for its "Condition Census Quality" and
"strong, mirrored fields." More recently, it was included in the
magnificent collection of Eugene H. Gardner, a further testament to its
superior quality.
It sits at the top of the Condition Census by a clear
margin, ranked at CC#1 by both the Tompkins (2008) and Rea-Koenings-Haroutunian
(2010) censuses. It ranks above even the Proof from the Norweb Collection
graded PF-64 (PCGS) and the historic Newman specimen now graded MS-64 (PCGS). Within
the wider 1820 Small O issue this example is notably tied with the MS-66 (PCGS)
B-5 from the Pogue Collection.
This incredible MS-66 (NGC) 1820 quarter will be featured in
our March 2021 Las Vegas Auction, along with many important coins including
Small Eagle Draped Bust half dollars from the E. Horatio Morgan Collection,
spectacular Peace dollars from the Pittstown Collection, and New Orleans Mint
rarities from the Collection of Steve Studer. The sale will be available for
viewing and bidding on our website www.StacksBowers.com and printed catalogs
will also be available for purchase. If you would like to consign to an
upcoming sale or have questions about the consignment process, please contact
us today at [email protected] or 800-566-2580.
