Owner Comments:
The 1856-O Quarter Eagle, like its sister the 1856-0 Double Eagle, is very rare, with an estimated only 4 to 6 known in mint state and 20 - 22 known in AU (ok, not as rare as the double eagle). As such it is the third most rare quarter eagle from the mint, and the second in mint state.
This PCGS MS62 example is the finest known, PCGS 1/0 NCG 2/0. It was one of the most significant pieces in the Pinnacle Collection (from which it came) regardless of denomination. This is the only 1856-O piece that is absolutely, unequivocally “new.”, according to Winter (see the census listing for this date in his book).. It displays beautifully rich reddish-gold color atop atypically frosty surfaces and is very boldly struck. The color and luster gives this coin stunning eye appeal.
This piece was first sold in an obscure Bowers and Merena auction where it realized nearly $20,000 in spite of little publicity and it was later sold to the owner of the Pinnacle Collection who considered it to be one of the true prizes in his collection. Even though I have an even stronger collection than that of the Pinnacle (I bought the best coins from that collection), I still consider this the highlight of the Louisiana Quarter Eagles, and indeed, one of the most appealing to the eye of the entire collection due to its unique color and luster, and of course it absolute originality.
The coin is plated on Page 74 in the Winter book on New Orleans gold.