Many people don't know that in the early years of the barber quarter coinage there were two different reverses used. In the first reverse, seen here you can see the the serif on the E in United sticks out from beyond the eagle's wing. This high relief supposedly led to stacking problems with the quarters. A theory I've never tested as I can't afford 40 BU 1892 quarters, although it would be nice. Therefore the second reverse was released as seen here. Now you know, oh also there is a third reverse on the barber quarter dollars but it would not come into use until 1900 and all the reverses changed to it at that time.
My favorite pick up point is the star directly above the eagle's head. It looks right side up on the first reverse and upside down on the second reverse. I find it much easier to spot on the pictures rather than the "E".
BQ: Great posting, about time that someone brought it to everyone's attention. Great photos & explaination.
<<Is either one more rare the the other? How many years did this go? And is this only on the quarter? >> Variety I is somewhat scarcer 1892 only, but I think it was all three mints. It was only on the quarter.
