Imagine finding a tiny golden coin tucked away in a family keepsake box, only to realize it could change your life forever. That’s the dream for anyone lucky enough to own the legendary 1808 Capped Bust Quarter Eagle. This tiny piece of American history recently smashed records by selling for a jaw-dropping $3.4 million. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just curious, let’s look into what makes this coin so valuable, how to spot it, and how you might find treasure in your own collection.
Overview
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Coin Name | 1808 Capped Bust Quarter Eagle ($2.50 Gold Coin) |
| Designer | John Reich |
| Mintage Year | 1808 (One-Year Issue) |
| Total Coins Minted | 2,710 |
| Estimated Surviving Coins | 125-150 |
| Record Sale Price (2024) | $3.4 Million (PCGS MS65) |
| Metal Composition | 91.67% Gold, 8.33% Copper |
| Official Resource | NGC Coin Price Guide |
The 1808 Capped Bust Quarter Eagle is one of the rarest U.S. coins out there. Only a few hundred survived, and one pristine example recently shattered records at auction. If you’re into coins or just plain lucky, you might want to check your collection closely.
History
The 1808 Capped Bust Quarter Eagle was designed by John Reich and struck for only one year. It features Lady Liberty on the obverse wearing a soft cap and a powerful heraldic eagle on the reverse. The coin was part of an early 19th-century push to update American currency designs, symbolizing freedom, strength, and hope for the young nation.
With just 2,710 coins ever made and even fewer surviving, this gold piece has become a white whale for collectors everywhere.
Design
The design of this coin tells a story all its own:
- Obverse: Lady Liberty faces left, surrounded by 13 stars for the original colonies.
- Reverse: A bold heraldic eagle with a shield on its chest clutches arrows and an olive branch, signaling both strength and peace.
John Reich’s artistic touch made this coin stand out, and it’s a key reason for its incredible value today.
Value
Why does a tiny $2.50 coin command millions? Here’s why:
- Low Mintage: Only 2,710 coins were minted.
- Historic Significance: It’s the first and only $2.50 design by John Reich.
- Survivor Rarity: About 125–150 coins are left today.
- Auction Record: In 2024, a PCGS MS65 example sold for $3.4 million.
- Condition Matters: Higher-grade coins fetch much higher prices.
Even lower-grade examples still sell for hundreds of thousands, proving just how coveted this coin is.
Identification
Wondering if you have one? Here’s what to check:
- Look for the date 1808.
- See if it’s a $2.50 gold coin with Lady Liberty wearing a soft cap.
- The reverse should show the classic heraldic eagle holding arrows and an olive branch.
No mint mark is needed since all were made in Philadelphia at the time.
Hidden Treasures
Even if you don’t have this exact coin, plenty of other coins could be worth a fortune. Here’s a simple checklist:
- Check Dates and Mint Marks: Coins from before 1933, especially gold and silver coins, are often valuable.
- Spot Mint Errors: Look for double strikes, off-center strikes, or unusual features.
- Condition is Key: Coins in mint or near-mint condition are much more valuable.
- Use Online Tools: Websites like NGC or PCGS can help you get a ballpark estimate.
- Consult a Pro: Professional grading services can confirm a coin’s authenticity and grade.
Checking a rare coin is like winning a mini lottery you didn’t even know you entered. So get those old coins out of the drawer—you never know what hidden fortune might be waiting for you.
FAQs
What is the 1808 Capped Bust Quarter Eagle?
It’s a rare $2.50 gold coin minted for only one year, in 1808.
How much did the 1808 Quarter Eagle sell for?
A specimen sold for $3.4 million in 2024 at auction.
How many 1808 Capped Bust Quarter Eagles exist today?
Only around 125 to 150 coins are known to survive.
What makes the 1808 Quarter Eagle so valuable?
Its low mintage, rarity, historical importance, and condition.
Where can I check my coin’s value?
Use resources like NGC or PCGS Price Guides online.
