From the South Texas Collection. When is the last time a GEM AU CAC piece was offered? Of the silver denominations authorized by the April 1792 Act of Congress that established the U.S. Mint, the dime and quarter were the last to be struck and introduced to circulation. In all only 6,146 quarters were struck, and this emission was the entire mintage of quarters until 1804. In any grade, the 1796 is an important "Blue Chip" rarity, in high demand from low grade problematic examples all the way to the few GEM Mint State survivors. The present "GEM" AU B-1is a superb example, offering an amazing eye appeal on an issue that usually comes with evidence of cleaning or other defect. This one is the exact opposite of what is usually encountered. A bold, underlying luster has a distinctive flash, exhibiting a light reflection which suggests that when minted, it would have had the Prooflike surfaces that some of the Choice and Gem Mint State coins possess. After a brief stay in commerce, it was saved and lovingly cared for by generations of collectors where it was able to acquire a beautiful, antique patina on both sides. The sharply struck devices are a delight to behold and show only the slightest hint of rub on the highest points. We cannot locate even the tiniest of ticks or lines even after close inspection with a powerful loupe. For an AU, this coin has an eye appeal suggestive of an even higher grade! PCGS 8, NGC 5, CAC 5. You can go ahead and toss out any pricing info for this coin! The last PCGS coin in AU53 to sell was back in August 2006--a dozen years ago! Even then that coin sold for $50,600--way back then! As a PCGS/CAC in today's market, this coin should sell for much more, and should surpass easily the current PCGS Price Guide value of $56,000. With all the cleaned, ugly, and artificially toned AUs out there, this original beauty is a real prized for the collector and will find itself at home in a great type set or early quarter set. Either way, we know many people will enthusiastically compete to have the winning bid! Cert. Number 25507273 PCGS # 5310