The 1808 Capped Bust Quarter Eagle is one of the most legendary coins in American numismatic history. With its one-year-only design and extreme rarity, this coin has fetched staggering prices at auctions, sometimes exceeding $3.4 million! If you are a coin collector or have inherited old coins, it’s time to check your collection—because you might be sitting on a fortune.
Key Details About the 1808 Capped Bust Quarter Eagle
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Coin Name | 1808 Capped Bust Quarter Eagle |
| Designer | John Reich |
| Denomination | $2.50 (Quarter Eagle) |
| Composition | 91.67% Gold, 8.33% Copper |
| Mintage | 2,710 coins |
| Current Value | Up to $3.4 million (depending on condition) |
| Rarity Level | Extremely rare – one-year issue |
| Auction Record | $2.35 million (Stack’s Bowers, 2015) |
| Official Info | PCGS Coin Facts |
The 1808 Capped Bust Quarter Eagle is one of the most valuable and sought-after coins in American history. With its limited mintage, rich history, and skyrocketing auction prices, it remains a dream find for collectors. If you believe you might have one, get it authenticated and appraised immediately—you could be holding a multimillion-dollar treasure.
What Makes the 1808 Capped Bust Quarter Eagle So Valuable?
Several factors contribute to the extreme rarity and high value of this coin:
1. One-Year Type Coin
The Capped Bust Quarter Eagle was only minted in 1808, making it a one-year issue. Unlike other coins that were minted for multiple years, this limited production significantly increases its scarcity.
2. Extremely Low Mintage
Only 2,710 coins were minted in 1808, and due to circulation, melting, and loss over time, fewer than 20 specimens are known to exist today.
3. Historical Importance
Designed by John Reich, this coin was part of an early attempt to redesign American coinage, making it an essential piece of U.S. numismatic history.
4. Record-Breaking Auction Prices
- A specimen graded MS65 by PCGS sold for $2.35 million in 2015.
- High-quality specimens can command over $3 million at private sales and auctions.
- Even a well-worn version of the coin can fetch six or seven figures!
How to Identify an 1808 Capped Bust Quarter Eagle
Before you get too excited, you’ll need to verify whether you own a genuine 1808 Quarter Eagle. Here’s how to identify this rare coin:
Obverse (Front Design)
- Features Liberty facing left with a cap on her head.
- The word “LIBERTY” is inscribed above her head.
- Thirteen stars (representing the original colonies) surround the design.
- The date “1808” appears at the bottom.
Reverse (Back Design)
- Features a heraldic eagle with an outstretched wingspan.
- The eagle holds arrows in one talon (symbolizing military readiness) and an olive branch in the other (symbolizing peace).
- Above the eagle is a banner with the motto “E PLURIBUS UNUM.”
- The inscription “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” surrounds the top edge.
- The denomination “2 1/2 D” appears at the bottom.
How to Check if Your Coin is Authentic
Due to its high value, the 1808 Quarter Eagle is highly targeted by counterfeiters. Here’s how to verify authenticity:
1. Inspect the Design Details
Compare your coin’s details with certified images from trusted resources like PCGS (Professional Coin Grading Service) or NGC (Numismatic Guaranty Corporation).
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2. Weigh Your Coin
The correct weight of an authentic 1808 Quarter Eagle is 4.37 grams. Use a precision scale to check if your coin matches this weight.
3. Seek Professional Grading
For verification, send your coin to a third-party grading service, such as:
- PCGS (Professional Coin Grading Service)
- NGC (Numismatic Guaranty Corporation)
- ANACS (American Numismatic Association Certification Service)
What to Do If You Have One?
If you think you have an 1808 Capped Bust Quarter Eagle, follow these steps:
- Do Not Clean the Coin! Cleaning it can lower its value significantly.
- Get it Certified by a top coin grading service like PCGS or NGC.
- Consult an Auction House: Firms like Heritage Auctions or Stack’s Bowers specialize in selling rare coins.
- Get an Appraisal: A professional coin appraiser can give you an accurate valuation.
- Consider Selling at Auction: Rare coins like this often sell for the highest price in competitive auctions.