1893 Proof Barber Quarter

Coin Details

Auction Record

$29,375 PR69 07-27-2013 Stack's Bowers

Description

The 1893 Proof Barber Quarter is a proof quarter struck at the Philadelphia Mint, part of the Barber Quarters 1892-1916 series. With a mintage of 792, this is an extremely rare issue — the lowest mintage among 4 mint variants, representing only less than 1% of total production. The obverse features Liberty facing right wearing a Phrygian cap topped by a laurel wreath, with the word LIBERTY on a headband and the reverse displays a heraldic eagle with shield on breast, olive branch and arrows in talons, with a banner reading E PLURIBUS UNUM. The 1893-S is a semi-key date with lower mintage from the San Francisco Mint. The Panic of 1893 began disrupting economic activity. As a proof issue, this coin was struck multiple times on specially prepared polished planchets using polished dies, producing mirror-like fields and frosted design elements prized by collectors. Struck at the original U.S. Mint facility, in continuous operation since 1792. Estimated market value is approximately $802. Struck in 90% silver, 10% copper, weighing 6.3 grams, 24.3 mm in diameter, with a reeded edge. Cataloged as PCGS #5679.