Fascinating Coin Fact

The Executive Order of 1933 banned gold ownership except for $100 in face value that could be held in a collection. The government announced on December 28 that collectors could keep all numismatic gold except quarter eagles, but collectors protested so loudly that the order was rescinded on January 12, 1934. The $2.50 gold thus was illegal to own for a period of 16 days. No explanation was ever given as to why the quarter eagle was singled out for special treatment.