1839-D $2.50 Classic Head Quarter Eagle NGC AU58

Here’s a rare piece to include in your collection. The mintage of this issue was 13,674. NGC has graded 21 specimens as AU58 with 17 finer. Collectors Universe prices this issue at $37,500.00 in AU58.

“Being the first quarter eagle from the Dahlonega Mint makes this issue extremely popular,” writes Jeff Garrett.

“Also, this is the only example of the Classic Head type from this desirable Southern mint. … the 1839-D issue is … a difficult date to locate. Most examples survive in circulated condition, but nice About Uncirculated examples can be found with a little luck and money. Uncirculated examples were once considered extreme rarities, but modern population reports indicate that at least a dozen Mint State examples are known, including two MS 64 example graded by NGC.”

Students from North Georgia College practice a military drill in front of the erstwhile Dahlonega Mint during 1877-78. The college used the building until it burned down in 1878. Photo: Wikimedia Commons.

Gold specialist Doug Winter writes of this issue, “The 1839-D is popular due to its status as the only Classic Head quarter eagle struck at the Dahlonega Mint. It is also the only Dahlonega mint issue of this denomination with the mintmark located on the obverse.” Continuing, Winter writes, “The 1839-D quarter eagle is generally seen in Very Fine and Extremely Fine grades …. This date is rare in the higher About Uncirculated grades and it is very rare in Mint State.”