Certified Bust Quarter 1820 G4 NGC

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  • Product ID: 56830
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  • Description:

    The Certified 1820 Bust Quarter graded G4 by NGC is a historic and collectible example of early American silver coinage from the Capped Bust series. These quarters, struck from 1815 through 1838, reflect a formative period in U.S. minting when the fledgling nation was still developing its identity and coinage systems. The 1820 issue belongs to the "Large Size" Capped Bust Quarter subseries (1815–1828), which features a bold, classically inspired design by John Reich. As a certified Good 4 specimen, this particular coin displays significant circulation wear, but it remains identifiable with visible major devices and inscriptions. Despite its low grade, its age, historical significance, and scarcity in all conditions make it a desirable acquisition for collectors of early U.S. coinage.

    The obverse of the 1820 Bust Quarter features a left-facing portrait of Liberty wearing a soft cap, or “Phrygian cap,” that rests on a band inscribed with the word “LIBERTY.” Thirteen stars, representing the original colonies, arc along the perimeter—seven to the left and six to the right. The date “1820” is centered below the bust. On a G4-graded coin, most fine details such as hair strands and facial features are well worn, but the general outline of Liberty, the stars, and the date are still discernible. Even in this grade, the coin retains the dignity of its classical design and the charm of over two centuries of circulation history, bearing witness to an era when every coin was handled by countless individuals in everyday transactions.

    The reverse design of the coin presents a heraldic eagle, a national symbol, with outstretched wings. The eagle clutches three arrows in its left talon and an olive branch in its right, signifying both readiness for defense and a preference for peace. A shield is superimposed on the eagle’s chest, and a scroll above its head displays the motto “E PLURIBUS UNUM.” The inscription “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” curves along the upper border, with the denomination “25 C.” placed at the bottom. On this G4 example, the fine feathers and shield lines are heavily worn, but the eagle’s outline and major elements are still clearly visible. The rim may be partially merged with the design due to wear, but the overall form remains intact enough for confident attribution.

    The 1820 quarter was struck at the Philadelphia Mint, the only U.S. Mint in operation at the time. As such, it bears no mintmark, consistent with all early issues from this era. The mintage for the year totaled 127,444 coins, a relatively low figure by modern standards, and even within the Bust Quarter series, it is a moderately scarce date. Surviving examples are limited, particularly in problem-free and certified conditions. Most that do appear on the market have been heavily circulated, making a Good 4 grade an honest and expected representation of what circulated coinage from the 1820s typically looks like today.

    The 1820 issue is further complicated by known varieties, including small date and large date subtypes, as well as differing die alignments and numeral spacing. Some varieties exhibit wide or narrow date spacing, repunched digits, or minor die cracks, all of which are of interest to specialists in the Bust Quarter series. While these details are often indistinct in low-grade coins such as G4 examples, certified specimens may still serve as useful references for die variety attribution, especially if such features are partially retained. NGC certification confirms authenticity, which is especially important given the prevalence of worn or damaged early coins that can be difficult to verify unaided.

    The physical characteristics of the 1820 Bust Quarter include a diameter of approximately 27 mm and a standard weight of 6.74 grams, composed of 89.24% silver and 10.76% copper. These specifications were standard for silver coinage of the time. The edge of the coin features a reeded pattern, although much of this detail may be obscured or completely worn away on G4 examples. The silver content, though secondary to numismatic value, adds an element of intrinsic worth and ties the coin to its role as hard currency in an era when precious metal content defined monetary value.

    The Capped Bust Quarter series is admired for its classical design, historical context, and the relatively low number of coins produced. Early quarters were not minted in large quantities because they were not as heavily demanded as smaller denominations like dimes or larger silver coins such as half dollars. This scarcity, combined with the era’s limited mintage technology and frequent die changes, results in a wide array of collectible varieties and a general shortage of well-preserved specimens. Collectors of early U.S. coinage often seek to build type sets including each major design, and the Capped Bust Quarter represents a crucial entry between the Draped Bust and Seated Liberty designs.

    While G4 coins are far removed from mint state in terms of sharpness and detail, they carry a distinctive appeal for collectors who value coins with rich circulation history. A G4 coin like this 1820 quarter is a survivor that may have passed through countless hands in the antebellum United States. It may have traveled westward with pioneers, exchanged in markets of early industrial cities, or been hoarded during economic uncertainty. As a certified piece, it assures buyers of its authenticity and grade, and its worn surfaces only enhance its narrative charm—offering a tangible connection to the economic and social fabric of early 19th-century America.

    Collectors seeking an affordable example of an 1820 Bust Quarter will find this G4 NGC-certified coin an excellent entry point. While higher-grade specimens are prized and expensive, lower-grade coins offer the same historical significance and artistic beauty at a more accessible price. For enthusiasts who value completeness, authenticity, and the story each coin tells, G4 examples are often welcome additions to early U.S. collections. Furthermore, with NGC certification, the coin's legitimacy and condition are protected, making it a trustworthy choice in the often challenging early American coin market.

    In conclusion, the Certified 1820 Bust Quarter graded G4 by NGC is a modestly preserved but historically rich artifact of early American numismatics. It exemplifies the enduring beauty of the Capped Bust design, the evolving coinage practices of the young U.S. Mint, and the daily life of 19th-century commerce. Though well-worn, its essential features remain clear, and its certified status offers collectors a secure and affordable opportunity to own a genuine piece of American coin history. For those drawn to early U.S. silver coinage, this 1820 quarter is a classic example of rugged charm and timeless national heritage.

  • Details:
    • Denomination: N/A
    • Year: 1820
    • Diameter: N/A
    • Mint Mark: N/A
    • Thickness: N/A
    • Grade: N/A

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