1815 25C Capped Bust Quarter
The 1815 25C, also known as the 1815 Capped Bust Quarter, is an enduringly rare and historically significant coin from the early 19th century United States minting period. The coin is notable for being minted at the Philadelphia Mint, which was the sole minting facility in the United States at the time. With a mintage of only 89,235, the 1815 Capped Bust Quarter stands out due to its low production number, contributing to its rarity and desirability among collectors. The PCGS Coin Facts catalogues it under the #5329, confirming its status as a coveted piece for numismatists. Coins from this era often had relatively low mints compared to later emissions, but the 1815 Quarter stands out even against its contemporaries, making it a sought-after item for collectors. As the first year of the Capped Bust Quarter series, the 1815 edition introduced a new obverse design by John Reich, featuring the left-facing profile of Lady Liberty, adorned with a cap.
The reverse showcases an eagle with a shield on its chest, clutching arrows and an olive branch—a motif meant to symbolize a balance of strength and peace. From a numismatist's perspective, the 1815 Quarter is not only a rare artifact but also a carrier of early American history, reflecting the nascent United States' growth in coinage quality and design. Collectors prize this coin particularly in higher grades, with prices varying significantly based on condition. Coins graded Fine can fetch several thousand dollars, whereas those in Mint State conditions can reach values upward of tens of thousands of dollars. In terms of auction sales, there have been remarkable instances that highlight its value.
A notable example is when a choice Mint State example was sold in auction for a premium price, emphasizing the high demand and significant appreciation for the 1815 25C among serious collectors and investors alike. CoinFacts.com has recorded that this particular quarter plays a key role in a large number of specialized collections featuring early American coins, often included as part of complete Capped Bust Quarter type sets. The 1815 25C occupies a distinguished place among early American numismatics, not merely for its rarity due to limited mintage but also for the historical context it encapsulates, representing both the aesthetic and technological strides of its era.
