There is something fascinating in the world of coins and numismatics that a coin that is only worth 25 cents or, at most, a dollar can actually hold a value of thousands of dollars. One such example is the 25 Cent (Proof) Quarter of 1821, which was seen and photographed at the Baltimore gallery of Whitman Coin and Collectibles Auctions.
This coin collection is part of the Capped Bust Quarters 1820-1838 series, designed by John Reich. This coin was made of 89.2% silver and 10.8% copper. If you look at it, you will not notice it is silver unless you have a good idea of it. >
Where was this 1821 quarter dollar manufactured?

According to researchers, this quarter dollar was manufactured in Philadelphia. Additionally, there were only 15 of this coin produced. This means that only 15 coins were produced, which is very rare and coins of this type can go for a very hefty price in the hands of a collector. >
The point to note here is that there are usually thousands or millions of coins of the same type. But for this quarter dollar, researchers have records of only 4 or 5 coins. One of these coins is kept at the Smithsonian Institute in the National Numismatic Collection. >
An example is of “D. Brent Pogue PCGS PR67,” which was sold in 2015 for $23,500. The third quarter dollar collector will remember the coin that came out in the Norweb sale as a one-sided proof. The fourth quarter dollar was purchased in the Eugene Gardner sale as NGC PR65.
1821 Quarter Dollar Coin Sale Record at Auction

The highest sale record of this 1821 quarter dollar coin was set in 2023 and was priced at $252,000. Some believe there will be as many as 12 coins of the 1821 Proof Quarter Dollar, but it’s not that simple. >
This coin becomes even more interesting because it may be more appealing to collectors and numismatics lovers. If you look at the obverse of this magnificent coin, it becomes even more interesting.
Design Features of the Coin
The left side of this quarter dollar has 7 stars, while the right side has only 6 stars. These 13 stars represent the first 13 colonies of the time that formed the original states of the United States. The coin has the year 1821 inscribed on it, which is located towards the bottom of the image. The reverse side of the coin shows a two-headed eagle holding olive branches and arrows in its claws. Above the eagle’s head is a flag with the words “E Pluribus Unum” written on it.
Conclusion
The 1821 25 Cent Quarter Dollar is not only a historic coin, but it is also a priceless gem in the world of numismatics. The rarity of the coin, the intricacy of its design, and its high trade value make it highly valuable among collectors. Collectors and coin enthusiasts will try to obtain it at all costs to learn more about this coin and understand its history.
FAQs
Q. What is the 1821 quarter-dollar coin?
A. The 1821 quarter-dollar coin is a rare proof coin minted in Philadelphia as part of the Capped Bust Quarters series (1820-1838).
Q. How many 1821 quarter-dollar coins were produced?
A. Only 15 coins of the 1821 quarter-dollar were minted, making it extremely rare and highly valuable to collectors.
Q. What is the value of the 1821 quarter-dollar?
A. The 1821 quarter-dollar has sold for as high as $252,000 at auction, depending on its condition and rarity.
Q. Where can I find an example of the 1821 quarter-dollar?
A. One example is housed at the National Numismatic Collection at the Smithsonian Institution.
Q. What does the design of the 1821 quarter-dollar look like?
A. The coin features 13 stars representing the original U.S. colonies, with a two-headed eagle on the reverse holding olive branches and arrows.