Draped Bust Quarter, Heraldic Eagle (1804-1807) | CoinWeek

The Draped Bust Heraldic Eagle Quarter: America’s Elusive Early Silver Coin

In today’s pocket change economy, quarters and pennies dominate daily transactions. However, during the early 1800s, the quarter dollar rarely appeared in circulation. Depositors seldom requested the denomination, and the United States Mint struck quarters only in small numbers during the nation’s first decades.

This limited demand shaped one of the most intriguing early U.S. silver series: the Draped Bust Quarter with Heraldic Eagle reverse.

The Quarter Dollar’s Late Arrival

The Mint Act of 1792 authorized several coin denominations, yet the quarter dollar came last. The United States Mint did not strike the denomination until 1796, when it produced just 6,146 pieces.

That inaugural issue, the 1796 Draped Bust Quarter, holds several distinctions. It was the only quarter struck in the 18th century. It also remains the only quarter to feature the Small Eagle reverse. After 1796, quarter production ceased entirely for several years.

The Heraldic Eagle Reverse (1804–1807)

Quarter production resumed in 1804 with a modest mintage of 6,738 coins. This new issue introduced the Heraldic Eagle reverse, replacing the earlier Small Eagle design.

The Heraldic Eagle was a medallic interpretation of the Great Seal of the United States. However, the design placed the olive branch and bundle of arrows in opposite talons, a configuration considered heraldically incorrect.

Following the low output of 1804, production rose steadily. Each subsequent year saw increased mintages, culminating in nearly 250,000 quarters struck in 1807. Despite this growth, quarters still failed to circulate widely.

After 1807, the Mint once again halted quarter production. The denomination did not return until December 1815, when the Capped Bust Quarter entered production.

How Much Are Draped Bust Heraldic Eagle Quarters Worth?

Collectors often ask whether these early quarters remain affordable. The answer depends heavily on grade.

Draped Bust Heraldic Eagle Quarters remain relatively accessible in low Very Fine (VF) grades. However, prices rise sharply as condition improves. Coins graded Mint State command significant premiums, especially in Gem condition or finer.

Population reports show several hundred certified examples for each date. The 1804 issue, which had the lowest mintage, also has the smallest surviving population. As a result, 1804 quarters bring strong prices in all grades.

The famous 1806/5 overdate stands out as the best-known variety. In circulated grades, it generally trades near the level of regular issues. In Mint State, however, it sells for steadily increasing premiums.

Extended Coverage on CoinWeek

In an in-depth video feature, former American Numismatic Association President Gary Adkins explores the Draped Bust Quarter series. He also shares practical insights for collectors pursuing these early silver coins.

Draped Bust Quarter Design Details

Obverse Design

The obverse presents a right-facing classical portrait of Liberty. Her long, flowing hair ties at the back with a multi-part ribbon. Draped fabric covers her shoulders and extends across the bust.

A denticulated rim surrounds the design. Inside it, a concentric legend displays LIBERTY at the top, the date at the bottom, and thirteen six-pointed stars. Seven stars appear to the left of Liberty, while six appear to the right.

Reverse Design

The reverse centers on an eagle with outstretched wings and its head turned to the right (the viewer’s left). The eagle grips a sheaf of arrows in its dexter claw and an olive branch in its sinister claw.

A shield covers much of the eagle’s body. A flowing banner loops around the lower beak and displays the motto E PLURIBUS UNUM. The banner extends in front of the right wing and behind the left.

The legend UNITED STATES OF AMERICA encircles the design within a denticulated rim. At the bottom, the denomination appears as 25 C., with “25” positioned to the left of the tail and “C.” to the right.

The eagle’s wings nearly reach the rim, dividing the words of the legend. Above the eagle, thirteen small six-pointed stars appear in three arcing rows, typically with six stars in the top row. Stylized clouds fill the space between the stars and the words STATES OF, symbolizing divine protection.

No mintmark appears on any Draped Bust Heraldic Eagle Quarter.

Recognized Varieties

Collectors have identified several die varieties within the series. The most notable include:

• The 1806/5 overdate
• An 1806 issue with the “C” in 25 C. punched over an “A”

In addition, researchers have documented several minor die variations.

Draped Bust Heraldic Eagle Quarter Specifications

• Years of Issue: 1804–1807
• Mintage (Circulation): High: 220,643 (1807)   Low: 6,738 (1804)
• Composition: .8924 silver, .1076 copper
• Weight: ±6.74 grams
• Diameter: ±27.50 mm
• Edge: Reeded
• Obverse Designer: Robert Scot
• Reverse Designer: Robert Scot

Final Thoughts

The Draped Bust Heraldic Eagle Quarter stands as a reminder of how differently early Americans used money. Although the Mint increased production over time, the denomination never gained wide circulation. Today, these quarters attract collectors who value early U.S. history, classic design, and meaningful rarity.