1815 Capped Bust Quarter Counter-stamped "E" / NGC AU-58

Description

This listing is for an
1815 Capped Bust Quarter
graded by
NGC
as
AU-58
.
B-1.  Counter-stamped "E".  The "E" and "L" counter-stamps have confounded numismatists since they first appeared in the 1870's.  Seen only on 1815 and 1825 quarters, current conjecture is that they were used for voting or accounting purposes by the Harmony Society commune of Economite, Pennsylvania.  The choice in the "Great Schism" was between George Rapp, founder and spiritual leader of the community, "E", and a dissenter, Count Leon, "L".  This theory was proposed in a 2004 article in
The Gobrecht Journal
by Ted McAuley.  While this theory may be true, nobody knows for sure why these elusive and enigmatic "E" and "L" counter-stamp pieces exist.  What is known for sure is that all the survivors are in grades XF to AU, and that these pieces continue to be very popular with collectors and mystery solvers alike.
This is an attractive, problem-free example with original medium gray patina and deep accents surrounding the devices.
Piece will be sent via registered post.
All reasonable offers considered.  The coin pictured is the coin you will receive.  Please see our other listings.  Thank you.