1860 Clark Gruber Gold Quarter Eagle ($2.50)

Fresh, original skin with rich yellow-green-gold color give this AU55 terrific eye appeal for a notably tough issue that often comes in poor shape. The surfaces are pleasingly even with strong detail at the legends and that shows well under light. Fields show a light wash of friction - nothing distracting - while the rims and devices remain crisp. Some strike weakness is present, typical for the issue. Housed in a PCGS gold shield holder, this example has that classic territorial fabric we all love and the look that makes you nod and say, yep, PCGS (and Clark Gruber!) got it right.