1796 25C AU53+ PCGS CAC

Confined to just 6,146 pieces—all coined in 1796, today, the 1796 Draped Bust Quarter stands as one of the most iconic and sought-after issues in early U.S. numismatics, recognized in 100 Greatest U.S. Coins and viewed as a cornerstone of both type and advanced federal series collections. This premium AU53+ example defies the norm for the issue, which typically suffers from cleaning, harsh handling, or dull, lifeless surfaces. In contrast, this coin exhibits phenomenal originality and eye appeal, with antique toning layered in rose-gold, sapphire, auburn, and steel-blue hues across both sides. The obverse glows with rich golden-bronze and copper-peach across Liberty’s portrait, while the reverse offers a dramatic display of cobalt, lavender, and olive-gold swirling through the wreath and fields. A soft satiny texture remains uninterrupted by distraction, with luster flickering throughout. The strike is outstanding for the type, particularly in the stars, hair detail, and eagle's face—elements often found soft or indistinct even on higher-grade pieces. Close inspection reveals only the faintest touch of rub on the high points, but virtually no marks or impairments, even under magnification. The surfaces reflect light in a way that suggests this piece once bore the faintly prooflike reflectivity often seen in early, well-struck Mint State coins. If we were a betting man, we would almost bet that this one day will end up in a higher grade at AU55 which looks absolutely like in our opinion. CAC approval confirms the coin’s elite status within its grade, one of just five CAC-endorsed AU53 examples out of a total PCGS population of nine at that level but a Pop 1 at AU53+. Market activity underscores the scarcity of high-quality AU pieces, with no AU50 or 53 recently though a AU55 CAC example brought $144,000 04/25 HA. Given F12 CAC sell for approximately $45,000-$50,000, we cannot underscore the undervalued values of this issue in AU CAC. CAC Value is $126,000 for typical AU53 examples but this is far from normal. 

PCGS Cert Verification #25507273

• PCGS Price Guide -$105,000
• PCGS POP - 1/82
• CAC Price Guide - $126,000
• CAC POP - 1/15
• PCGS Coin#  5310