...this coin possibly began its life of commerce. Back in the summer of 1815, a bank in New Orleans sent an order to the mint for quarters. After months of correspondence, the mint got around to making the first capped bust quarters, and about 69,000 were delivered 200 years ago today on December 16, 1815. Another 20,000 were delivered in January of 1816, but the next day the rolling mills were incapacitated by a fire, preventing the minting of more silver coins during 1816. Go to this link for more information: http://www.numismaster.com/ta/numis/Article.jsp?ArticleId=27476 This particular coin of mine quite possibly began its financial duty on this date 200 years ago. It's fascinating to think where it's been and how many thousands of hands it touched during its years in circulation. By no means is it in perfect condition, but I'm proud to own this piece of history. Pardon the less than optimal images; these were from when I was less decent at photographing coins with an iPhone!
