Pedigreed back to the Ashland city collection (not noted on the holder), this piece is one of only five to seven pieces of this issue remaining in uncirculated condition. All remaining pieces of these small numbers appear to be heavily bagmarked, and this coin is not much of an exception. Yet, it boosts considerable eye-appeal with all details sharp, and a lovely original golden color. Full luster, as can be excepted for a mint state coin is seen on both sides, and it is quite crispy.

The present piece is the so-called recut date variety, although in reality only the last two digits have been repunched, thus correctly named 1839/39-C quarter eagle. Collecting these gold coins by variety has not yet been as popular as some of the other series of American coinage. Only a few specialized collections are being put together in the present time. For completeness, this is Winter 2-B, Breen-6149, McCloskey-B. All references list this coin as being rare, and from our experience this coin is just that in any grade.

If variety collecting of these interesting and scarce gold coins will occur on a larger scale, many collectors will discover the relative rarity of this variety in any grade. In the past, we have seen that such coins will feature an impressive jump in prices, which will most likely also be the case with this variety. As such, this is an excellent coin to secure right now, before more collectors realize the scarcity of this variety and prices will start to move up. It must be noted that the area of roughness of the cheek is a characteristic of this variety, and does not detract from the coins value.

In its population report, for the 1839-C quarter eagle NGC shows 9 in MS61, tied for third best, with 3 better.