1983-P Spitting Eagle Quarter questions

messydesk

Not being a modern collector, this isn't a variety that's on my radar, but it seems to be popular with collectors. Looking into it, it's nothing more than a clash mark that runs from the eagle's beak to the wing. For those more familiar with it, I have questions. Does this show up on many dies, either for 83-P or other dates? Is there a specific die that is considered "the good one", or do collectors simply want any clash between beak and wing, regardless of strength?

davids5104

I have an example of the coin you are asking about. The 1983 P is a member of the top 100 modern coins. It is there because it was not in mint sets or mint sets were not done that year. I am unable to remember the specifics. In MS 66 you can sell the coin for 70 to 100 dollars. In 67, it's a few hundred. I am not aware of any good version or less desirable version, just you have it or you dont

davids5104

The spitting eagle sells for a bit more than the standard

messydesk

Here's a photo of one that I wouldn't call a spitting eagle, although the coins is VLDS (severe die wear). The clash is only partial due to probably a combination of the die wear and a weaker clash to start with. I imagine that only a coin that has an unbroken "spit path" down to the wing would qualify to be called a "spitting eagle."

ricko

I have not looked for this variety... I should check my hoard of eagle quarters...must have about 200 of them saved....another project for a day without work/play/other things.... Cheers, RickO

JBK

Looks like the eagle is drooling.

I'll have to keep my open for these.

Icollecteverything

1983 quarters and to a lesser extent 1982's are tougher to find nice than other years partly due to no mint sets those years but also because they pounded the dies to death. I have an 83 that appears to be polished in the clash area and then worn out after so the eagles head looks thinner and no beak.
I'm not sure if the "spitting eagle" is a die clash but I have seen that clash on other dates also. I have 2 1985-P examples with the clash all the way to the beak except one must have a slight rotation and ends out in front of the beak. Also have a 1982 where the clash goes up past the beak.