1912 INDIAN $2.5 PR66+

GEM DIAMOND CUT MATTE PROOF SURFACES. ONLY 197 STRUCK. CAC. Unlike in 1911, the Mint employed a fine-grain matte texture to the surfaces of the proof Indian Quarter Eagles that it struck in 1912. This is an attractive finish, the survivors exhibiting myriad sparkling facets and (typically) blended green-gold and yellow-gold overtones to both sides. Although 197 proof Two-and-a-Halves were struck this year, the contemporary public does not appear to have shared our positive assessment of the matte finish. Attrition took a heavy toll on this issue and many examples were melted as unsold, while others were likely placed into circulation by their disenchanted owners. Today, only 55-65 proof 1912 Quarter Eagles are believed to have survived in all grades.