Price Guide for 1796 Quarter Variants
This guide presents price ranges for variants from three sources: eBay sales, third-party auctions, and PCGS guides. Values are shown for various conditions, allowing collectors to compare across different market segments. Price estimates may vary between sources, especially for rarer variants.
-
3rd Party PriceCirculated: $28.00 – $156,000.00Uncirculated: $110.00 – $1,740,000.00
-
eBayCirculated: $3,255.00 – $25,500.00
-
PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $7,000.00 – $110,000.00Uncirculated: $125,000.00 – $3,000,000.00
-
eBayUncirculated: $550.00
-
PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $750,000.00 – $1,000,000.00
-
3rd Party PriceCirculated: $2,300.00 – $82,250.00Uncirculated: $36,800.00 – $264,000.00
-
PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $8,000.00 – $135,000.00Uncirculated: $150,000.00 – $3,250,000.00
-
3rd Party PriceCirculated: $1,495.00 – $96,937.50Uncirculated: $31,050.00 – $1,527,500.00
-
PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $7,000.00 – $110,000.00Uncirculated: $125,000.00 – $3,000,000.00
Design and Specifications of the 1796 Quarter
The 1796 Quarter is a highly significant coin in American numismatic history. It marks the first year of quarter dollar production in the United States. The Draped Bust design, created by Robert Scot, was introduced this year, replacing the Flowing Hair design used on earlier silver coins. This coin represents the beginning of the quarter denomination, which would become a staple of American coinage.
| Weight | 6.74 grams |
|---|---|
| Diameter | 27.5 mm |
| Mint Marks | None (all minted in Philadelphia) |
| Composition | 89.24% silver, 10.76% copper |
| Obverse Design | Draped Bust design, featuring Liberty facing right, designed by Robert Scot |
| Reverse Design | Small Eagle design, with an eagle perched on a cloud, designed by Robert Scot |
Rarity Factors and Value Drivers
The condition of a 1796 Quarter has a dramatic impact on its value. Due to its age and limited mintage, high-grade specimens are exceedingly rare and command premium prices. Even well-worn examples in Good or Very Good condition are highly valued.
Coins with original surfaces and natural toning are particularly desirable. The presence of adjustment marks (file marks made at the mint to ensure correct weight) is common and generally does not detract from value unless excessive.
Mintage: 6,146
Rarity Scale: Very Rare
Circulation Status: Limited Circulation
Preservation Rarity: Extremely rare in high grades (MS65 and above). Most surviving specimens show significant wear.
Varieties Errors: Two major varieties: Low 6 and High 6, referring to the position of the 6 in the date
Market Demand: High, due to historical significance and extreme rarity
Several factors can significantly affect the value of a 1796 Quarter:
1. Variety: The Low 6 variety is slightly rarer and often commands a premium.
2. Strike quality: Well-struck coins with full details are more desirable.
3. Provenance: Coins with a documented history of ownership by notable collectors can increase value.
4. Originality: Coins with original surfaces, free from cleaning or other alterations, are highly prized.
5. Eye appeal: Attractive toning can significantly enhance value, especially for high-grade specimens.
