1896-S 25C MS65 认证号07426863, PCGS号5615

The Barber quarter series has many semi-keys and stoppers in gem. However, three dates have always been acknowledged as the keys to the series for their overall rarity in all grades: 1896-S, 1901-S, and 1913-S. This condition census representative of the first key date Barber quarter exhibits many of the features of an early strike: crisp details, high relief, semi-prooflike surfaces, raised die polish striations, and light cameo contrast. A true and solid gem, this coin is held back only by some parallel lines visible under magnification across the portrait, likely the notorious planchet roller marks that are found on many products of the San Franciso Mint during this period and the subsequent decade. Nonetheless, this example stands well above the other PCGS MS65 that we have seen in terms of strike, luster, eye appeal, and overall quality. Ex Heritage, Long Beach Signature Sale (6/1/06:1385); Legend Numismatics.

Ron Guth

The 1896-S Quarter Dollar is a well-recognized rarity in all grades.

All 1896-S Quarter Dollars show the mintmark positioned above the space between the R of QUARTER and the D of DOLLAR.  However, there are two different dies with this feature: one with the S low and close to the R; another with the S higher and farther away from the R.  To see illustrations of both, click on the "View All Images" link.  If the mintmark is not in either of these positions, or does not have the same shape and appearance as the ones illustrated here, then the coin is most likely a counterfeit or the mintmark has been added.

Sources and/or recommended reading:
"Those Shifty Mintmarks" by David Lange, The Numismatist, September 2010, pp. 21-22