1893 Proof Isabella Quarter

Coin Details

Auction Record

$51,750 PR65 07-18-2013 Legend Rare Coin Auctions

Description

The 1893 Proof Isabella Quarter is a proof commemorative quarter struck at the Philadelphia Mint. With a mintage of only 103, this is an extremely rare issue. Authorized for the 1893 World's Columbian Exposition, this quarter dollar was sponsored by the Board of Lady Managers to fund a children's hospital at the fair. The obverse features a crowned bust of Queen Isabella I of Spain facing left, wearing a crown and veil, while the reverse displays a kneeling woman spinning flax, holding a distaff in her left hand and a spindle in her right, symbolizing women's industry. Designed by Charles E. Barber. Struck in 90% silver, 10% copper, weighing 6.25 grams, 24.3 mm in diameter, with a reeded edge. Cataloged as PCGS #9221. With a net distribution of 24,214 pieces, the Isabella Quarter is a scarce and historically important coin. It was the first U.S. coin to feature a foreign monarch and remains the only classic commemorative quarter.