The term “first quarter coin” can refer to different historical U.S. quarter dollar coins, each with distinct features and values based on their era and rarity.
Here are some of the coins that might be referred to as “first quarter coin”:
- The 1796 Draped Bust Quarter: This is literally the first quarter dollar coin ever produced by the U.S. Mint. It features a depiction of Lady Liberty on the obverse and an eagle on the reverse. These coins are extremely rare and highly valuable, potentially worth tens of thousands or even hundreds of thousands of dollars depending on their condition.
- The 1932 Washington Quarter (specifically the 1932-D and 1932-S mintages): While not the absolute first U.S. quarter, the Washington quarter series began in 1932 to commemorate George Washington’s 200th birthday. The 1932-D (Denver) and 1932-S (San Francisco) Washington quarters had very low mintage numbers, making them the rarest in the series and highly sought after by collectors.
- The 1916 Standing Liberty Quarter: This quarter was the first in its series, and its design caused some controversy due to the initial depiction of Lady Liberty with her right breast exposed. This design was later modified, making the 1916 variety particularly rare and valuable.
It is important to remember that the condition of the coin, including any errors or varieties, plays a significant role in determining its value. If you possess a coin that you believe to be a rare quarter, it’s recommended to consult with a professional coin grader or appraiser for an accurate valuation.
What was the first quarter coin?
The first quarter made by the U.S. Mint in 1796 was silver. The designs from 1796 to 1930 showed Liberty on the obverse and an eagle on the reverse.