Although the Carson City Mint produced nearly 1 million quarter dollars in 1878, only about 575 to 800 examples survive in all grades. This last-year-of-issue date has rarely received the recognition due it as a semi-key in the “CC” quarter dollar series. One reason is, it pales in comparison in rarity with “CC” quarter dollars dated 1870 to 1873. Also, it is not nearly as scarce as the often underrated 1875-CC issue. However, when compared with the 1876-CC and 1877-CC issues, examples of the 1878-CC date are noticeably less available—in all grades.

In grades MS-65 and higher the supply of 1878-CC quarter dollars shrinks considerably. Combined MS-65 and MS-66 submission events tallied by PCGS and NGC are currently exaggerated. Several MS-67 pieces rest at the top of the condition census. One of these only recently joined this elite group when PCGS upgraded it from MS-66 to MS-67.

In the MS-65 group, pleasing eye appeal is not always guaranteed. Some specimens in this grade are arguably more suited for an MS-64 or even an MS-64+ rating. To find an attractive MS-65 piece that meets with universal approval is a collector’s delight.

The PCGS MS-65 example offered here easily qualifies for high-end distinction. Coming from the noteworthy Rian’s Bequest Collection of Carson City coinage, it displays wonderfully original surfaces that are mostly all-white on the the obverse and attractively tinted with rich russet-burgundy-blue hues on the reverse—mostly around the periphery. Glowing luster radiates from both sides giving this coin a freshly-struck appearance.

The strike is boldly defined on all the highpoints. Contact marks are minimal on both sides, almost to the point of demanding that this coin receive a + (Plus) sign added to its point rating.

This specimen provides an interesting study in die characteristics and diagnostics. For starters, multiple die-clashmarks are visible in many directions. These include ones on the left obverse field, below the rock-foundation, and an upside-down double-chevron-shaped one on the right obverse field. On the reverse, clashmarks are visible below the motto scroll (beneath WE), on the fields to the left and to the right of the eagle, and a bold series of them above the eagle’s left shoulder (facing). On the obverse, small, raised daubs of metal (some pimple-like) are scattered in locations on Lady Liberty’s body.

One last observable diagnostic is worth mentioning. This specimen is of the so-called non-semi-canceled die variety. This means there are no raised lines darting across Liberty’s lap and smaller ones placed on different areas of her body.

This lovely CAC-approved 1878-CC quarter dollar will capture any collector’s imagination and make an impressive addition to any set (of any kind).