1831 Small Letters

Alongside the Large Letters reverse, 1831 also produced the Small Letters issues cataloged as Browning B-1 through B-4, which carry a noticeably smaller reverse legend. The Philadelphia Mint struck 398,000 quarters in 1831 across both varieties, and modern survival estimates suggest the Small Letters represent a meaningful but smaller share of that total. Production took place under Mint Director Samuel Moore during the first full year of steam-press operation, a technological shift that allowed the mint to abandon the larger 27 mm planchet in favor of the new 24.3 mm format. The smaller letters on this variety likely reflect a separate working hub used in reverse die preparation rather than a deliberate design distinction.

Identification is straightforward once a reference image is in hand. The letters in UNITED STATES OF AMERICA appear distinctly shorter and narrower than on the Large Letters reverse, and the 25 C denomination shows similarly reduced lettering. The Small Letters group spans four die marriages (B-1 through B-4), giving variety specialists more pairings to chase than the three-marriage Large Letters group. Specifications match the rest of the early reduced-size issues: 6.74 grams, 89.24% silver, 10.76% copper, with a reeded edge. Authentication should verify weight first, since cast counterfeits often run light or show seam evidence at the edge. Die markers for B-6 include specific star positioning relative to denticles, and genuine pieces show characteristic die file marks in the reverse fields visible under 10x magnification.

Population data from PCGS and NGC indicates the Small Letters is the more available 1831 variety in both circulated and mint state grades, with the Large Letters running roughly one-fifth to one-eighth the populations. Heritage Auctions records show MS64 and MS65 Small Letters examples appearing at auction with reasonable frequency, and Stack's Bowers has handled several notable pieces from advanced cabinets. Variety specialists pursue all four Small Letters marriages. For full context on the reduced-size transition, consult the Capped Bust Quarter series history.