1914 $2.50 PR(PCGS#7963)

1914 $2.50 PR (PCGS#7963)

Summer 2026 Global Showcase Auction U.S. Coins

Lot Description: This handsome near-Gem Proof exhibits a rich honey-orange complexion that hints at rose-gold tones under certain lighting. The surfaces are virtually flawless in hand, close inspection with a loupe revealing a serene landscape of shimmering facets to a nearly unbroken sandblast finish. As to be expected, the strike is profoundly comprehensive and sharp throughout, handsomely showcasing Pratt's iconic incuse motifs.<p>The Sandblast Proof 1914 quarter eagle has the second lowest mintage of the type at just 117 pieces. Despite its popularity with today's gold specialists, the sandblast finish proved unpopular with contemporary collectors who were accustomed to the brilliant and cameo finishes used for the earlier Proof Liberty Head gold coinage. In fact, many Proof 1914 quarter eagles were eventually destroyed in the Mint when they failed to find buyers, making the issue rarer in today's market than the limited mintage might imply. John W. Dannreuther (2018) estimates that only 70 to 80 coins are extant in all grades, ranking the 1914 alongside the 1915 as the second rarest of the eight Proof Indian quarter eagle issues after the 1909. For the connoisseur of rare 20th century Proof gold, this handsome NGC Proof-64 offers a fleeting opportunity that should not be missed.