The Capped Bust Silver Quarter, struck from 1815 to 1838, represents one of the most fascinating — and often overlooked — chapters in early American numismatics. It’s one of the earliest U.S. mint silver coins. With limited mintages, elegant design, and historical importance, these quarters are prized by collectors who appreciate the artistry and scarcity of early U.S. coinage.
Quick Facts
- Years minted: 1815–1838
- Designer: John Reich (original), modified later by William Kneass
- Composition: 89.24% silver, 10.76% copper
- Weight: 6.74 grams
- Diameter: 24.3 mm
- Mint location: Philadelphia only
Historical Background
The Capped Bust Quarter was introduced in 1815, a full eight years after the last Draped Bust quarters were minted in 1807. The delay was due to low demand and a fire at the U.S. Mint that destroyed key equipment.
By 1815, commerce had grown, and the quarter denomination returned — now redesigned by assistant engraver John Reich, whose capped Liberty design would also appear on dimes, half dollars, and half dimes of the era.
Design Details
Obverse:
Features Liberty facing left, wearing a soft, draped cap (often called a Phrygian cap), with flowing hair. Thirteen stars surround the central figure, with the date below.
Reverse:
Depicts a majestic bald eagle with a shield, arrows and an olive branch in its talons, and “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” and denomination “25 C.” encircling the edge.
Two Types of Capped Bust Quarters
1. Large Diameter, Lettered Edge (1815–1828)
- Edge features the inscription: “FIFTY CENTS OR HALF A DOLLAR”
- Larger diameter and heavier feel
- All were struck with the older screw press method
2. Reduced Diameter, Reeded Edge (1831–1838)
- More standardized in size and weight
- Features reeded edges, introduced with steam-powered minting
- Sharper, more uniform strike
Key Dates & Rarities
Due to small mintage figures and long gaps between production years, several Capped Bust Quarters are quite scarce:
- 1815 – The first year of issue, only 89,235 minted. Highly collectible.
- 1822 – Extremely rare; only a few are known to exist. Considered one of the rarest U.S. quarters.
- 1823/2 – An important overdate variety.
- 1834 “Small Date, Small Letters” – A valuable variety for advanced collectors.
Collector Value (2025 Market Estimates)
| Date/Condition | Common Dates (e.g., 1835) | Scarce/Rare Dates (e.g., 1822) |
|---|---|---|
| Good (G-4) | $100–$200 | $5,000+ |
| Fine (F-12) | $200–$350 | $10,000+ |
| Extremely Fine | $400–$800 | $20,000+ |
| Mint State (MS) | $1,000–$3,000+ | Rare: $50,000+ |
Values can vary significantly based on eye appeal, toning, and whether the coin has original surfaces.
Tips for Collectors
- Focus on originality – Cleaned or polished coins lose collector value.
- Die varieties are common – Study the Breen or Browning catalogs for insights.
- Reeded Edge types are easier to find – Start there if you’re a beginner.
- Lettered Edge types offer more historical character – A true reflection of early mint craftsmanship.
Why Collect Capped Bust Quarters?
- Scarcity – With low mintages and limited production years, these coins are much rarer than modern silver issues.
- Design Elegance – John Reich’s work remains a standout in classic U.S. numismatic design.
- Investment Potential – Prices for problem-free examples have steadily increased over time.
- Historical Connection – These coins were used in daily commerce during the post-War of 1812 period through the dawn of the industrial age.
Other Popular Silver Quarters
Final Thoughts
The Capped Bust Silver Quarter is more than just a coin — it’s a tangible piece of early American history. Whether you’re assembling a type set or diving deep into die varieties and overdates, this coin offers rich rewards for collectors who appreciate rarity, artistry, and legacy.
If you’re lucky enough to acquire one in strong condition, especially from the earlier years, you’ll be holding one of the great treasures of U.S. coinage.
If you’re looking to buy silver or sell silver, be sure to reach out to the shop. We also have rare coins in stock such as the Capped Bust quarter. We have a wide selection of rare silver coins, give us a call today to learn more.
