1840-C $2.50 Liberty Head Quarter Eagle PCGS AU-50

The 1840-C $2.5 Liberty Head Quarter Eagle, graded AU50 by PCGS (Variety 1-A), exhibits a distinctive appearance due to its soft strike, particularly on the obverse, resembling certain 1842-C and 1856-C quarter eagles. Struck on an improperly prepared planchet, it displays a strip-like flaw between stars 1 and 2 extending to the chin, with another flaw on the face. The coin shows minimal luster, likely due to the flawed planchet rather than wear or mishandling, yet retains an original look with deep green-gold coloration on both sides. Its unique striking characteristics make it a compelling study piece for specialists, as no other 1840-C quarter eagle with a similar appearance has been noted.

As the first Liberty Head quarter eagle struck at the Charlotte Mint, the 1840-C is highly sought after by collectors. It is relatively obtainable in circulated grades up to XF45 but becomes moderately scarce in lower to middle AU grades, with an estimated 175-225 pieces surviving in all. Approximately nine or ten examples are known in Uncirculated condition, including several choice specimens. Its historical significance as the inaugural Charlotte Mint quarter eagle of this design, combined with its scarcity in higher grades, enhances its appeal among numismatists.

Product ID	555881
Year	1840
Mint Mark	C
Strike	MS
Grade	AU-50
Variety	-
Precious Metal Weight	0.12094 ozt Gold
Grading Agency	PCGS
Specification properties	No
Serial	13717904
Status	Active
Designation	-
Additional Info	-