1859-O Liberty Seated Quarter stands as a textbook condition rarity among 19th-century branch-mint silver issues—readily encountered in circulated grades, yet remarkably elusive in Mint State, despite a seemingly sufficient mintage exceeding a quarter million pieces. As the lowest-mintage New Orleans quarter struck between 1853 and 1860, demand among advanced collectors has kept high-end certified examples tightly held. The present coin showcases an unusually strong strike for the New Orleans Mint, with sharp star centers, well-defined shield details, and crisp eagle feathering, all reflecting superior die alignment and pressure at the time of striking. Its surfaces are fully original, displaying layered natural toning over a soft steel-gray and medium silver foundation. With no recorded auction appearance for an MS63+ CAC, this coin represents a seldom-offered opportunity in a grade range that is firmly locked away in long-term holdings. The PCGS Price Guide reflects a valuation of $12,500, with a population of just one at this level and only six graded finer overall, while CAC has certified merely two examples in higher grade.
Pedigree:
The Ohio Collection
