A rare 1796 Capped Bust Right Quarter Eagle, graded AU55 by a leading coin grading service, is scheduled for auction on November 9, 2025. This coin represents a significant piece of early American numismatic history.

Historical Significance of the 1796 Quarter Eagle

The 1796 Quarter Eagle holds the distinction of being the first $2.50 gold coin issued by the United States Mint. Designed by Robert Scot, the coin features a right-facing bust of Liberty on the obverse and a heraldic eagle on the reverse. Notably, the initial design omitted stars on the obverse, a feature that was added later in the same year. This "No Stars" variety was produced in limited quantities, making it a sought-after item among collectors.

Rarity and Survival Estimates

With an original mintage of approximately 963 pieces, the 1796 "No Stars" Quarter Eagle is among the rarest U.S. gold coins from the 18th century. Numismatic experts estimate that fewer than 200 examples have survived to the present day, with even fewer in higher grades. The coin's rarity is further underscored by its status as a one-year type, adding to its desirability among collectors.

Details of the Coin's Condition

The coin in question has been graded AU55, indicating that it is About Uncirculated with only slight wear on the highest points of the design. It exhibits strong detail, particularly in Liberty's hair and the eagle's feathers, with minimal signs of handling. A small planchet void is present on the lower right side of the obverse, serving as a unique identifier for this specimen.

Previous Auction Performance

This particular coin was previously sold in January 2025, realizing a price of $204,000. Its reappearance on the market provides collectors with a rare opportunity to acquire a high-grade example of this historic coin.

Auction Details

The auction is set to conclude on Sunday, November 9, 2025. As of the latest update, the current bid stands at $65,277.52. Given the coin's rarity and historical significance, it is expected to attract significant interest from collectors and investors alike.

Market Context

The offering of this 1796 "No Stars" Quarter Eagle comes at a time when the market for rare and historic coins remains robust. Collectors continue to seek out pieces with unique historical backgrounds and limited availability, factors that contribute to strong auction performances for coins of this caliber.