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The Draped Bust Quarter, introduced in 1796, marked the beginning of quarter-dollar coinage in the United States. Designed by Robert Scot, this series is highly prized for its historical significance and artistry. Its two primary varieties—Small Eagle (1796) and Heraldic Eagle (1804–1807)—reflect a transitional period in early American coinage.
Key Specifications
- Designer: Robert Scot
- Issue Dates: 1796–1807
- Composition: 89.24% silver, 10.76% copper
- Diameter: 27.5 mm
- Weight: 6.74 grams (104.01 grains)
- Edge: Reeded
Design Varieties
Type 1: Small Eagle (1796)
The first-year design features Miss Liberty facing right, with flowing hair and a ribbon behind her head. The reverse displays a small eagle perched on a cloud, encircled by an open wreath, with no denomination indicated.
- Mintage: 6,146
- Availability: Extremely scarce in all grades, with prooflike examples being particularly rare.
- Historical Note: The 1796 quarter is the only issue with the Small Eagle reverse, making it a cornerstone for early U.S. coin collectors.
Type 2: Heraldic Eagle (1804–1807)
This design includes the Draped Bust obverse and a reverse featuring the Heraldic Eagle motif, modeled after the Great Seal of the United States. The eagle holds arrows and an olive branch, with stars and an arc of clouds above.
- Mintage: 554,900 across all dates (1804–1807)
- Availability: Relatively more common than the 1796 issue but still scarce, especially in Extremely Fine or higher grades.
Historical Highlights
Delayed Beginnings
Like the dime, quarter-dollar coinage did not begin until 1796, years after the introduction of other denominations. The first design adopted the Draped Bust obverse and Small Eagle reverse.
Limited Production
After the initial 1796 mintage, no quarters were struck until 1804, when the Heraldic Eagle reverse replaced the Small Eagle design. Production remained limited, and the series was discontinued after 1807.
Collectibility of the 1796 Issue
The 1796 Draped Bust Quarter is a landmark coin due to its unique reverse design and low mintage. Specimens in About Good to Fine are most commonly encountered, while AU and Uncirculated examples are exceedingly rare.
The Heraldic Eagle Transition
Quarters struck from 1804 to 1807 feature the iconic Heraldic Eagle reverse, with production ramping up slightly during this period. However, striking inconsistencies—especially in the stars and eagle’s features—are common, making fully struck coins highly desirable.
Rarity and Market Trends
1796 Small Eagle
- Rarity: Extremely rare, especially in higher grades.
- Market Value: Among the most sought-after coins for type collectors and early American series enthusiasts.
1804 Heraldic Eagle
- Rarity: Scarce due to low mintage (6,738).
- Historical Note: Known for its weak strikes, particularly in the stars and eagle’s head.
Other Heraldic Eagle Issues (1805–1807)
- Rarity: Higher mintages make these slightly more accessible, but high-grade examples remain elusive.
- Collecting Tip: Weak strikes are typical, so collectors should focus on overall detail and luster.
Grading and Striking Characteristics
- Weak Strikes: Both Small Eagle and Heraldic Eagle varieties often exhibit light impressions in stars, rims, and eagle details.
- Prooflike Surfaces: Some 1796 quarters have prooflike qualities, though true Proofs were not officially struck.
- Grading Standards: For the 1796 issue, raised border denticles and clear date details are often intact even on heavily worn examples.
Why Collect Draped Bust Quarters?
The Draped Bust Quarter series represents the early artistry and challenges of U.S. Mint coin production. With its historical significance, low mintages, and unique design transitions, it appeals to both advanced numismatists and type collectors.
Explore Draped Bust Quarters at ParadimeCoins.com
Discover the legacy of early American coinage with our curated selection of Draped Bust Quarters. From rare 1796 issues to exquisite examples of the Heraldic Eagle variety, ParadimeCoins.com is your trusted source for premium collectible coins. Start your collection today!
