1910 Indian Quarter Eagle. JD-1, the only known dies. Rarity-4. Proof-66+ (PCGS). CAC.
This exceptional premium Gem specimen readily showcases the fine satin characteristics that this issue is prized for by modern collectors. The pleasing deep golden-orange color is accented by delicate apricot highlights throughout. Fully struck and expertly preserved. The 1910 is the second of only two Satin Proof issues in the Indian quarter eagle series, this finish introduced in 1909 in an effort to improve sales to collectors who did not like the Sandblast Proofs of 1908. In the end the new format proved just as unpopular, and the Mint returned to a modified version of the Sandblast finish in 1911, which continued in use with subtle texture changes through the series' conclusion in 1915. The reason for the reversion to the Sandblast finish seems to be a vote taken among attendees of the 1910 ANA Convention, which showed that that finish was more popular than its Satin counterpart among contemporary numismatists. The reported mintage of 682 pieces for the Proof 1910 bears no relation to the rarity of examples in today's market. Writing in his excellent 2018 reference on U.S. Mint Proof coins, John W. Dannreuther proposes that "a substantial number of the 682 quarter eagles struck in 1910 were likely spent by their buyers. And it [is] unlikely [that] many more than 100 Proof coins are extant today." This is one of the finest certified survivors of this underrated issue, a lovely coin that will please even the most discerning gold enthusiast.
PCGS# 7959. NGC ID: 289J.
PCGS Population: 3; with a single Proof-67 finer. CAC Population: 14; 2. The former total includes coins certified both Proof-66 and Proof-66+.

Estimate: $40000