None (for Philadelphia,
PA) left of the arrowheads on the reverse.
The 1926 Quarter Eagle is the first
Indian Head Quarter Eagle to be produced at the Philadelphia
mint since 1915. It begins a run of four issues that
are regarded as the most common dates of this type.
The 1926 Indian Head quarter is one
of the most plentiful of the entire series. There
are slightly fewer examples seen in most certified
grades than the 1925-D issue, but clearly this is
one of the most available dates. Even in full gem
MS-65 grades, examples can be obtained with minimal
patience. Most are sharply impressed by the dies,
and the color and luster is consistent with prior
and subsequent dates. This date is second only to
the plentiful 1908 issue in certified MS-66 grades,
but to date, no MS-67 examples have been certified
by NGC, ANACS, or PCGS. This date is recommended for
a type collector, as obtaining an example commands
no premium for rarity.
STRIKE: There are not many Indian Head Quarter
Eagles that are as well struck as the 1926. The typical
example has very sharp detail on the obverse with
nearly full feathers. While a few are seen with some
peripheral weakness due to die buckling, most are
sharp in this area as well. The reverse is also sharp
with nearly full feather detail on the wings, breast
and inner leg of the eagle.
SURFACES: This is the most available
Indian Head Quarter Eagle in Mint State-65 and, as a
result, it is possible to locate a piece that has reasonably
clean surfaces. The typical coin does show scattered
small marks, but there are a number that are very clean.
LUSTER: The luster on this issue
is excellent with a frosty texture that
is quite possibly the best on any date of this type.
High grade examples often have such good luster that
they make ideal type pieces to illustrate the beauty
of the Indian Head design.
COLORATION: Original
pieces have a number of possible color variations. Some
are known with medium green-gold hues while others are
a lighter rose-gold. A smaller number exist with very
attractive orange-gold. Locating one with good color
remains relatively easy.
EYE APPEAL: There
are many truly attractive 1926 Quarter Eagles known.
Most high grade pieces are well struck, have choice
surfaces and excellent luster and display good color.
Condition
Census: To qualify for the Condition Census,
a 1926 Indian Head Quarter Eagle must be Mint State-66.
