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The Certified 1825 Bust Quarter graded VF29 by NGC is a significant and highly collectible example from one of the most respected and historically important series in early American numismatics. Known officially as the Capped Bust Quarter, this coin was designed by Chief Engraver John Reich and was part of the quarter series struck from 1815 through 1838. The 1825 issue belongs to the earlier portion of this era (1815–1828), when the denomination was produced in smaller quantities and with hand-prepared dies, giving each coin a distinctive character. This particular specimen, certified by NGC with a precise and somewhat uncommon VF29 grade, represents a well-circulated but still sharply detailed piece of early 19th-century U.S. coinage history.
The obverse of the 1825 Bust Quarter features the bold and confident profile of Liberty, facing left and wearing a Phrygian cap inscribed with “LIBERTY.” Draped in classical robes, Liberty’s portrait is framed by thirteen stars—seven to the left and six to the right—symbolizing the original colonies. Below the bust is the date “1825,” with numerals spaced widely and usually well-struck. In VF29 condition, Liberty’s facial features, hair curls, cap folds, and drapery lines remain well defined, though moderate wear softens the highest points. The stars are complete, and the rim is full, indicating that the coin was only moderately circulated and retains substantial original detail, particularly in Liberty’s profile and the inscription.
The reverse is equally elegant, showcasing a heraldic eagle adapted from the Great Seal of the United States. The eagle is displayed with wings outstretched, clutching arrows in its left talon and an olive branch in its right—symbols of war and peace. A shield with vertical stripes covers its chest, and a scroll above the eagle bears the national motto “E PLURIBUS UNUM.” Surrounding the eagle are the inscriptions “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” and the denomination “25 C.” In VF29 grade, the eagle’s feathers—especially on the wings and shield—are moderately worn but remain clearly visible. The beak, arrows, and talons are identifiable, and the motto scroll is mostly readable, providing a balanced presentation of the design despite honest wear.
The 1825 Bust Quarter was struck exclusively at the Philadelphia Mint, the only U.S. mint in operation at that time. The reported mintage for the year was 168,000 coins, making it a relatively low-mintage issue by modern standards and a moderately scarce date within the series. More important to collectors than the raw mintage are the die varieties cataloged by numismatists such as Ard W. Browning and Walter Breen. Several die marriages exist for the 1825 quarter, primarily distinguished by date sizes, numeral positions, and subtle reverse differences. Among these, the Large Date, Small Date, and Overdate varieties are of particular interest. While this NGC-certified piece is not attributed to a specific variety on the holder, a closer examination of the coin could reveal if it corresponds to a desirable subtype, such as the 1825/3 overdate or the 1825 Large Date Browning-2 or B-3.
Struck in .8924 fine silver with a small copper component, the 1825 quarter weighs 6.74 grams and measures 27 millimeters in diameter. Early quarters of this era were produced on screw presses using individually prepared dies, resulting in a wide range of strike qualities and surface characteristics. Many surviving examples exhibit weakness at the centers or rim softness due to misalignment or die wear. A VF29 coin certified by NGC ensures the piece is problem-free, with even wear, sound surfaces, and no significant damage or cleaning—qualities that are not guaranteed with raw coins. VF29 is a somewhat uncommon grade, sitting just below XF thresholds but offering nearly all the visual benefits of a higher VF grade with slightly better affordability.
The surfaces of a VF29 Bust Quarter should exhibit a pleasing, natural patina, typically in medium steel-gray or silver-gray hues. Toning is common and often desirable, especially if it is even and enhances the visibility of design elements. NGC's encapsulation protects the coin and certifies its authenticity, grade, and marketability, which is especially important in early U.S. type coins where forgeries and cleaned examples are not uncommon. Collectors value certified early quarters because the grade assures them of originality, problem-free condition, and accurate assessment of wear and eye appeal.
The Capped Bust Quarter series is often pursued by type set collectors and early American specialists for its historical significance and classic design. The 1825 issue falls well within the “Large Size” subtype (1815–1828), prior to the diameter reduction and retooling of the series in 1831. These early quarters are significantly rarer than their later “Reduced Size” counterparts and are much more difficult to find in well-preserved grades. VF29 coins, in particular, offer a great balance of sharp detail and affordability, making them ideal for collectors who want a strong representative without paying the premium associated with Extremely Fine or About Uncirculated examples.
Historically, the 1825 quarter circulated during a formative time in U.S. history. It was issued in the era following the War of 1812 and during the presidency of John Quincy Adams. This was a period of domestic expansion, economic transformation, and increasing calls for internal improvements across the young republic. Coins like this 1825 quarter would have been used in everyday transactions involving trade, food, and transportation, serving not only as currency but also as a reflection of the nation’s values and aesthetics. Holding such a coin today provides a tangible link to that rich period of American development.
The Certified 1825 Bust Quarter VF29 NGC is a highly appealing and historically meaningful coin. With solid detail, pleasing surfaces, and a trusted third-party grade, it offers both numismatic value and aesthetic charm. Whether for inclusion in a Capped Bust quarter date set, a 19th-century type collection, or as a stand-alone investment in early U.S. silver, this coin stands as a superb representation of America’s early federal coinage. Its mid-grade status also ensures broader accessibility while maintaining lasting historical and collectible significance.