1828 25C 25/50C MS(PCGS#5343)

1828 25C 25/50C MS (PCGS#5343)

June 2026 Showcase Auction U.S. Coins

Lot Description: Tompkins Die Stage 1/1, Rea et al. Die State P. A well worn, yet nicely composed and visually pleasing example of a very rare blundered denomination variety in the Capped Bust quarter series. Generally pewter gray surfaces are enhanced by iridescent olive-russet patina that is largely confined to the protected areas around the peripheries and central design elements. Some glossiness to the texture is noted for accuracy, as are curious pink undertones, and some wispy hairlines also point to an old cleaning. No sizeable marks are seen, however, and the in-hand appearance is relatively smooth for the assigned grade.<p>The distinctive die error is plain to see on this coin, made by an inattentive engraver circa 1818, put into use for 1822 Browning-2, then shelved until it was married to Obverse 1 of 1828 and used again to create the Browning-3 variety of the latter issue. This is a fascinating major variety, less famous than the 1822 25/50 C. even though it uses the same reverse die, and it is the rarest die marriage among the quarters of 1828. While the 1822 25/50 C. variety has always had prime placement on lists of the rarest early quarters, the 1828 version remains underappreciated despite similar rarity, perhaps because of its placement at the end of the Large Diameter Capped Bust series. Here, then, is a significant and fleeting offering for the astute early quarter variety enthusiast.