After a run from 1805 to 1807, quarter production was suspended for eight years and resumed in 1815. By then John Reich’s Capped Bust design was already on the dime and half dollar, so it was adopted for the quarter as well, keeping U.S. silver coins on a common design. The obverse shows Liberty in a cloth cap; the reverse depicts a heraldic eagle.
Key facts
- Designed by: John Reich (Large Size); modified by William Kneass (Small Size)
- Issue dates: 1815–1838
- Composition: 89.24% silver, 10.76% copper
- Diameter: 27 mm (Large Size); 24.3 mm (Small Size)
- Edge: Reeded
The series has two types. The Large Size type (1815–1828) measures about 27 mm. In 1831 the design was modified by William Kneass, the diameter reduced to 24.3 mm, and E PLURIBUS UNUM removed from the reverse, creating the Small Size type (1831–1838). Both are collected for a type set.
Coinage was irregular: none were struck in 1826, 1829, or 1830, and the 1823/2 is a major rarity. Most other dates and die varieties in the series are reasonably available by comparison.
We actively buy Capped Bust quarters in every grade, from well-worn type coins to the key 1823/2 and high-grade examples. Send photos for a free, no-obligation offer.