1797 Capped Bust to Right Eagle
Base
About This Coin
The 1797 Capped Bust to Right Eagle is a United States Gold Eagle from the Capped Bust to Right Eagles 1795-1804 series. Walter Breen's reading of the delivery records gives 14,555 eagles dated 1797, 3,615 with the Small Eagle and 10,940 with the Heraldic Eagle; John Dannreuther suggests 8,750 to 12,500 in all. The obverse features Liberty facing right in a soft cap, and the reverse displays either a slender eagle standing on a palm branch and holding a wreath in its beak, used early in 1797, or the new a heraldic eagle, shield on breast, holding a bundle of arrows and an olive branch. Both small eagle and large (heraldic) eagle reverse varieties exist, making 1797 a transitional year. Struck in 91.7% gold, 8.3% silver and copper, weighing 17.5 grams, 33 mm in diameter, with a reeded edge. Designed by Robert Scot.
Value Estimates
Values as of May 2026 across all of this coin's strike types, from published price guides and, in some cases, recorded auction sales. For most coins the range runs from a well-worn example (around G-4) to an uncirculated one, but individual coins can sell for more or less depending on grade, eye appeal and demand. Compare recent sales of similar coins for a closer estimate.
Specifications
Strike Types & Varieties(2)
1797 Capped Bust to Right Eagle - Heraldic Eagle
1797 Capped Bust to Right Eagle - Small Eagle
Other Base Coins in This Series
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