1804 Capped Bust to Right Quarter Eagle

About This Coin

The 1804 Capped Bust to Right Quarter Eagle is a United States Gold Quarter Eagle from the Capped Bust to Right Quarter Eagles 1796-1807 series. The obverse features Liberty facing right wearing a cloth cap (pileus), while the reverse displays a small, naturalistic eagle perched on a palm branch within a wreath (through 1798) or a heraldic eagle with shield on breast, olive branch and arrows in talons, with a banner reading E PLURIBUS UNUM (1804-1807). Designed by Robert Scot. Struck in 91.7% gold, 8.3% copper, weighing 4.37 grams, 20 mm in diameter, with a reeded edge. Produced at the Philadelphia Mint. The first U.S. Quarter Eagle ($2.50 gold) was struck in 1796, making it one of the earliest American gold denominations. Production was sporadic, with no coins struck in several years. All dates are rare. The 1796 "No Stars" variety is a unique coin. These early gold coins represent the foundation of American gold coinage.