Draped Bust Quarter Values
How Much Draped Bust Quarters are Worth: Draped Bust Quarter Values & Coin Price Chart
Year | Mint | Variety | Designation | VG-8 | F-12 | VF-20 | EF-40 | AU-50 | U-60 | MS-63 | MS-64 | MS-65 | MS-66 | MS-67 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
1800 | P | Plain 4- Stemless Wreath | Red-brown | 200 | 300 | 400 | 500 | 600 | 700 | 800 | 900 | 1000 | 1200 | 1100 |
| Year | Mint | Variety | Designation | VG-8 | F-12 | VF-20 | EF-40 | AU-50 | MS-60 | MS-63 | MS-64 | MS-65 | MS-66 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1796 | (None) Phil | -- | -- | $24,600 | $34,000 | $45,900 | $59,450 | $72,700 | $125,750 | $217,000 | $325,000 | $644,250 | $2,130,000 |
| 1804 | (None) Phil | -- | -- | $5,475 | $8,630 | $12,115 | $31,250 | $57,250 | $112,000 | $197,750 | $268,250 | $379,500 | -- |
| 1805 | (None) Phil | -- | -- | $1,019 | $894 | $1,729 | $3,540 | $5,420 | $12,450 | $20,900 | $37,050 | $87,400 | $176,000 |
| 1806 | (None) Phil | -- | -- | $609 | $894 | $1,660 | $3,375 | $5,200 | $12,450 | $20,900 | $47,995 | $116,495 | $225,500 |
| 1806/5 | (None) Phil | -- | -- | $830 | $1,273 | $1,895 | $4,010 | $7,300 | $14,800 | $30,700 | $53,100 | $153,500 | $260,000 |
| 1807 | (None) Phil | -- | -- | $1,019 | $894 | $1,660 | $3,375 | $5,200 | $12,450 | $20,900 | $32,650 | $102,250 | $247,500 |
Overview
The Draped Bust Quarter, minted from 1796 to 1807, is one of the earliest U.S. quarters and a prized collectible in American numismatics. Designed by Robert Scot, this quarter features a striking portrait of Liberty with flowing hair on the obverse, while the reverse depicts a heraldic eagle or a small eagle, depending on the year. Collectors value Draped Bust Quarters for their historical significance, low mintages, and early American design, making them one of the most sought-after series in U.S. coinage.
History of the Draped Bust Quarter
First introduced in 1796, the Draped Bust Quarter was the first quarter-dollar coin the United States Mint issued. Designed by Robert Scot, the obverse features Liberty with draped clothing inspired by a portrait of socialite Ann Willing Bingham.
The series saw two distinct reverse designs during its production:
- Small Eagle Reverse (1796 only) – A delicate small eagle surrounded by a laurel wreath, reminiscent of the early U.S. coinage style.
- Heraldic Eagle Reverse (1804-1807) – A more robust eagle design inspired by the Great Seal of the United States, featuring a shield, arrows, and an olive branch.
The Draped Bust Quarter was replaced in 1808 by the Capped Bust Quarter, marking a new era in American coinage.
Collecting Draped Bust Quarter Coins
Collectors seek Draped Bust Quarters due to their early American origins, artistic beauty, and rarity. These coins were struck in very low numbers, making them difficult to find, especially in higher grades.
Some of the most desirable issues in the series include:
- 1796 Small Eagle – The first U.S. quarter ever minted, a key numismatic treasure.
- 1804 Heraldic Eagle – The first issue featuring the updated eagle design.
- 1805 & 1806 – Popular collectible dates with increasing demand.
- 1807 – The final year of the series, often collected as part of a type set.
Additionally, collectors look for die varieties, overdates, and strong strike examples, as many early quarters exhibit weak details due to the minting process.
Tips for Collectors
- Where to Find Them: Draped Bust Quarters are rare and typically found at prestigious coin auctions, major coin dealers, and high-end estate collections.
- Key Details to Watch For: Seek sharp detail in Liberty’s hair, full denticles, and a well-defined eagle on the reverse.
- Proper Storage: Store Draped Bust Quarters in certified holders or climate-controlled safes to preserve their historical condition.
Most Valuable Coin
One of the most valuable coins in this series is the 1796 Draped Bust Quarter, as it was the first quarter ever minted in U.S. history, with only 6,146 coins struck. High-grade specimens of this coin can command six-figure prices at auction due to their extreme rarity and historical significance.
Investment Potential
The Draped Bust Quarter is a highly valuable and historically significant investment. Due to low mintages and strong collector demand, these coins have seen consistent value appreciation. Key dates such as 1796 and 1804 remain some of the most sought-after early American coins. Additionally, certified high-grade specimens tend to fetch premium prices at auction.
Key Dates and Varieties
Collectors and investors often seek the following key dates and varieties:
- 1796 Small Eagle – The first U.S. quarter, extremely rare and valuable.
- 1804 Heraldic Eagle – First year of the redesigned reverse.
- 1805 & 1806 – Popular collectible years with moderate scarcity.
- 1807 – The last year of the series before transitioning to the Capped Bust Quarter.
Notable Errors
- Overdates – Some Draped Bust Quarters feature overpunched dates, such as 1806/5.
- Repunched Stars and Numerals – Certain issues display misaligned or repunched elements, making them unique collectibles.
- Weak Strikes – Many examples have weak details due to early minting techniques, particularly in the eagle’s wings or Liberty’s drapery.
Design Features
The Draped Bust Quarter, designed by Robert Scot, features a portrait of Liberty with flowing hair and draped clothing on the obverse. The reverse saw two distinct designs:
- Small Eagle Reverse (1796): A lightly detailed eagle surrounded by a wreath, used only for one year.
- Heraldic Eagle Reverse (1804-1807): A stronger eagle clutching arrows and an olive branch, with a shield on its chest, mirroring the Great Seal of the United States.
Conclusion
The Draped Bust Quarter is one of the most historic and collectible U.S. coins, offering a glimpse into the earliest days of American coinage. With its low mintages, rare key dates, and strong numismatic demand, this series remains a pinnacle of early U.S. coin collecting. Understanding its rarities, design nuances, and market trends helps collectors and investors make informed decisions when acquiring these prestigious coins.