Draped Bust Quarter (1796 - 1807)

Overview

A singular place in the annals of American numismatic history is reserved for the Draped Bust Quarter, which was struck between the years 1796 and 1807. Mainly because it was one of the first quarter-dollar coins that the United States Mint ever produced.

• • The design that came to be known as the Draped Bust was designed in the year 1796. This design ultimately supplanted the earlier style known as the Flowing Hair, which was featured on some of the early coins issued by the United States. Lady Liberty's artwork is ascribed to well-known artist Gilbert Stuart. The person in charge of completing the engraving at the United States Mint was Robert Scot, Chief Engraver there.
• • The right-facing classical picture of Liberty is shown on the obverse of the coin. Her long, flowing hair is secured behind her head with a multi-part ribbon. One may find the word "liberty" above, and the year 1796 below. Nine stars are located to the left, while seven are located to the right. Denticles that are noticeable can be seen along the border. A little eagle that is perched on a cloud is enclosed within an open wreath that is tied with a bow at the bottom of the reverse side of the card. It is surrounded by the United States of America. There are no indications of the denomination or worth of the item.

• • After the Mint Act of 1792, the quarter dollar was the final denomination to be manufactured. The first emission of 6,146 coins took place in 1796. The quarter dollar was the last denomination to be made.
• • Not only was the 1796 Draped Bust Quarter the only quarter to have the Small Eagle reverse, but it was also the only quarter that was made throughout the 18th century.
• • Furthermore, it was the only quarter that was struck until 1804, when a slightly larger mintage of 6,738 coins was minted, this time with the new Heraldic Eagle reverse. The design of the Heraldic Eagle was a metallic version of the Great Seal of the United States of America, but it represented the olive branch and the bundle of arrows in the reverse direction.

• • Some of the rarest and most precious Draped Bust Quarters are from 1796; the quarter was initially minted somewhat seldom.
• • The quarter of 1804 was a significant year as it represented the start of the series after a hiatus of eight years. Grades ranging from About Good to Very Fine simply allow one to explore the years 1804–1807.