1912 Indian Quarter Eagle. JD-1, the only known dies. Rarity-4. Proof-65 (NGC).

Here is an impressive Gem representative of this scarce and challenging 20th century Proof gold issue. Both sides exhibit the characteristic fine grain sandblast finish of the date, the surfaces sparkling with myriad tiny facets under a light. Bathed in light mustard-gold color, subtle pinkish-apricot highlights are also evident under close scrutiny. Sharply struck throughout and very well preserved compared to the typically encountered Proof 1912 quarter eagle. The Mint experimented with numerous Proof finishes on the Indian gold coinage between 1908 and 1915. The vast majority of numismatists of the era preferred the brilliant finishes of previous years and were not excited about the sandblast finish used on Bela Lyon Pratt's design. Throughout this period, many minor tweaks and adjustments were made to enhance their appeal. In 1912, the coins show lighter color and finer facets to the surfaces, features that combine to make this one of the more aesthetically pleasing Sandblast Proofs in the Indian quarter eagle series. (A detailed study of the various finishes between each issue would prove to be a worthwhile endeavor for the advanced collector.) Despite having the second highest reported mintage - 197 pieces - the 1912 is one of the scarcer issues in this Proof series. Both PCGS CoinFacts and John W. Dannreuther (2018) are in agreement that only about 100 coins are extant in all grades. This is one of the finer known to NGC, and would serve as a highlight in any advanced gold cabinet.

PCGS# 7961. NGC ID: 289L.