The 1804 Draped Bust Quarter is one of the most famous and sought-after coins in American numismatic history. Known for its elegant design and rare status, this quarter has captured the attention of collectors and historians alike. In this article, we will explore the history, significance, and value of the 1804 Draped Bust Quarter, shedding light on why it is such an important piece of American coinage.
The History Behind the 1804 Draped Bust Quarter
The 1804 Draped Bust Quarter was part of a series of coins that were struck at the U.S. Mint during a time of growing national identity. The coin was designed by Robert Scott, who created the “Draped Bust” design for the quarter. The design features a female figure with flowing hair, draped in a cloth, symbolizing Liberty. The reverse of the coin depicts an eagle with a shield, a classic American motif.
Although the 1804 Draped Bust Quarter is often linked to the year 1804, not all of these coins were actually minted that year. In fact, due to issues with the minting process and demand for quarters, the 1804 Draped Bust Quarter was struck over several years, with some coins being produced as late as 1805. This has made the coin even more fascinating for collectors and historians, as it is not always clear exactly when each coin was minted.
Design of the 1804 Draped Bust Quarter
The design of the 1804 Draped Bust Quarter is one of the most iconic in U.S. coinage history.
- Obverse (Front): The obverse features Liberty, depicted with flowing hair and wearing a draped gown. The word “LIBERTY” is inscribed above, with the year “1804” beneath the bust. The bust is shown facing to the right, which was a popular design choice for coins of the time.
- Reverse (Back): The reverse shows an eagle with a shield, clutching arrows and an olive branch, symbolizing strength and peace. The eagle is surrounded by a ribbon bearing the words “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA,” and there are 13 stars around the eagle, representing the original 13 colonies.
This design was one of the most advanced of its time, blending classical elements with symbols of American independence and liberty.
Why the 1804 Draped Bust Quarter is So Rare
The rarity of the 1804 Draped Bust Quarter is one of the primary reasons it is so valuable to collectors. Despite being part of a regular series of quarters, relatively few of these coins were actually struck. At the time, the U.S. Mint was still in its early years of operation, and the production of quarters was limited.
In addition, there were issues with the minting process, which caused delays in production. The 1804 Draped Bust Quarter was not widely circulated, and many of the coins that were produced were either lost or damaged over the years. As a result, only a few well-preserved specimens of this coin exist today, making it extremely rare and highly sought after by collectors.
Market Value and Auction Highlights
The 1804 Draped Bust Quarter commands a high price at auctions due to its rarity, historical significance, and collector demand. Coins in good condition can fetch substantial amounts of money, with the value increasing significantly for coins in higher grades.
Notable Auction Sales:
| Coin Grade | Auction Lot | Auction Price | Date of Auction | Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| VG8 (Very Good) | Heritage Auctions, Lot 3012 | $13,200 | January 10, 2018 | Light wear, but well-preserved example |
| XF40 (Extremely Fine) | Stack’s Bowers, Lot 3076 | $29,000 | October 15, 2019 | Strong details, minimal wear |
| AU50 (About Uncirculated) | Heritage Auctions, Lot 2148 | $50,000 | May 24, 2021 | High-quality coin, almost no wear |
The prices above show just how much demand there is for this rare coin, especially when it is well-preserved. Collectors are willing to pay top dollar for a piece of American history, and the 1804 Draped Bust Quarter continues to be a highly coveted item at auctions.
Specifications of the 1804 Draped Bust Quarter
Here are the key specifications of the 1804 Draped Bust Quarter:
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Country | United States |
| Year of Issue | 1804 |
| Denomination | Quarter (25 Cents) |
| Mintmark | None (struck in Philadelphia) |
| Mintage | Extremely limited (exact number unknown) |
| Composition | 89.24% Silver, 10.76% Copper |
| Weight | 6.74 grams |
| Diameter | 27 mm |
| Edge | Reeded |
| Obverse Designer | Robert Scott |
| Reverse Designer | Robert Scott |
Why Collectors Love the 1804 Draped Bust Quarter
The 1804 Draped Bust Quarter is a prized possession for many collectors for several reasons. First, the coin’s historical importance cannot be overstated. It was part of a series of coins produced during the early years of the United States, reflecting the nation’s growth and identity. Second, its rarity makes it a treasure for collectors who appreciate the hunt for rare and valuable coins. Lastly, the coin’s beautiful design, which combines Liberty’s image with national symbols, adds to its appeal.
Conclusion
The 1804 Draped Bust Quarter is a legendary coin in the world of American numismatics. With its captivating design, historical significance, and extreme rarity, it continues to be a highly sought-after item for collectors and coin enthusiasts. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just starting, owning a piece of history like the 1804 Draped Bust Quarter is an exciting and rewarding experience.
FAQ’s
What is the 1804 Draped Bust Quarter?
The 1804 Draped Bust Quarter is a rare U.S. coin featuring a design of Liberty on the front and an eagle on the back. It was minted during the early 1800s and is highly sought after by collectors due to its historical significance and limited production.
Why is the 1804 Draped Bust Quarter so valuable?
The coin is valuable because of its rarity, with only a few surviving specimens. Its historical importance, beautiful design, and low mintage make it a prized possession among coin collectors, with some examples selling for tens of thousands of dollars.
How much is an 1804 Draped Bust Quarter worth?
The value of an 1804 Draped Bust Quarter varies depending on its condition. Well-preserved coins in higher grades can sell for anywhere from $10,000 to over $50,000 at auction, making it one of the most expensive coins in U.S. history.