Coins and the world of numismatics can be truly fascinating. The fact that a 25-cent piece can be valued in the thousands of dollars is a testament to the allure of rare coins. One such exceptional example is the 1821 25-cent Proof Quarter Dollar. This rare specimen from the Capped Bust Quarters series, minted between 1820 and 1838, captures the imagination of collectors and investors alike.
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The Capped Bust Quarters Series
The 1821 25-cent Proof Quarter Dollar belongs to the Capped Bust Quarters series, a design created by the renowned engraver John Reich. This series features coins made of 89.2% silver and 10.8% copper. Although the composition might not be immediately apparent to the casual observer, experts recognize the high-quality silver content that contributes to the coin’s value.
Minting and Rarity of the 1821 Proof Quarter Dollar
According to PCGS, the 1821 Proof Quarter Dollar was minted in Philadelphia, with an extraordinarily low mintage of just 15 coins. Such a limited number makes this coin exceedingly rare, significantly boosting its value. Unlike more common coins with thousands or even millions of specimens, the 1821 Proof Quarter Dollar is a highly coveted item among collectors.
Historical Significance and Examples
The rarity of the 1821 Quarter Dollar is underscored by the fact that only a handful of examples are known to exist. Among these, one notable piece is part of the National Numismatic Collection at the Smithsonian Institution. Other famous examples include the “D. Brent Pogue PCGS PR67” which sold for a staggering $235,000 in 2015. Another example from the Norweb sale was noted as a one-sided Proof, and a third example appeared in the Eugene Gardner sale, graded NGC PR65.
Auction Records and Market Value
The auction record for this coin was set in 2023, with a sale price of $252,000. Although some sources claim that there may be around 12 Proof 1821 Quarters, this number remains speculative and unverified. This uncertainty only adds to the coin’s mystique and appeal among collectors and numismatists.
Design Features of the 1821 Quarter Dollar
The obverse of the 1821 25-cent Proof Quarter Dollar showcases a portrait of Liberty, adorned with a headband. The coin features 13 stars—7 on the left and 6 on the right—representing the original thirteen colonies of the United States. The date “1821” is inscribed at the bottom of the obverse.
On the reverse, the design features a heraldic eagle with outstretched wings, clutching arrows, and an olive branch in its talons. Above the eagle, a scroll displays the motto “E PLURIBUS UNUM,” encapsulating the coin’s historical and national significance.
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The 1821 25-cent Proof Quarter Dollar is a prime example of how rare coins can capture the imagination and wallet of collectors. Its limited mintage, historical significance, and distinctive design contribute to its high value and desirability. Whether you’re a seasoned numismatist or a new enthusiast, the 1821 Proof Quarter Dollar is a remarkable piece of American coinage history worth exploring.