Description
A remarkable Proof Liberty Seated Quarter from the first year the Motto was adopted, this 1866 25C is a visually striking and condition-rare example that pairs historic significance with elite preservation. Struck at Philadelphia and certified PCGS PR67+CAM with CAC approval, it represents the kind of premium, original-quality Proof that advanced collectors pursue, yet remains immediately captivating to anyone drawn to beautiful 19th-century coinage. From the Simpson Collection, it stands at the very top of the CAC-confirmed census for the issue. Historical significance and collector appeal " First-year Motto type: The addition of IN GOD WE TRUST in 1866 marks a key post–Civil War design change that defines the era and creates a distinct collectible subtype within the Liberty Seated series. " Philadelphia Proof craftsmanship: Proof coinage of the mid-1860s is prized for its meticulous preparation and specialized striking, offering sharper definition and superior surfaces compared to circulation strikes. Eye appeal and surfaces " Obverse color and contrast: Predominantly light silver-gray with warm champagne-gold highlights, complemented by medium to deep copper-brown toning on the devices and along the rim. The look is both elegant and original, emphasizing the seated figure and surrounding legends. " Reverse color and contrast: Predominantly silver-gray in the central fields and figure, encircled by vivid teal-blue and violet-magenta peripheral toning with amber-gold transitions, plus deeper bronze-brown accents at the rims and lettering. The peripheral color frames the design dramatically and enhances the cameo presentation. " Cameo designation (CAM): The coin exhibits notable contrast between the devices and fields, a highly desirable characteristic on Proof Liberty Seated coinage. Rarity, certification, and pedigree " Attribution: Briggs 2-B, a collected die marriage that adds depth for specialists and variety-focused Liberty Seated enthusiasts. " Certified quality: PCGS PR67+CAM with CAC approval, confirming exceptional preservation and premium originality for the grade. " CAC population: 2 in PR67, 0 finer, underscoring its scarcity at this level among CAC-approved examples. " Provenance: Simpson Collection, a pedigree recognized by collectors for consistently high-end, carefully selected material. " PCGS Cert No.: 44156301 This is a standout 1866 Motto Proof quarter that combines a pivotal one-year “first with Motto” moment, impressive cameo character, and exceptional eye appeal with a top-tier pedigree and CAC-confirmed rarity at the grade level.