1807 Quarter Dollar Value Guide (Draped Bust)

The 1807 Draped Bust Quarter: Final Year of an Era

The 1807 Draped Bust Quarter, final year of the Heraldic Eagle design series

The 1807 U.S. Quarter Dollar represents a significant numismatic milestone as the final coin struck in the Draped Bust, Heraldic Eagle design series (1804-1807). This single-year issue also marks the end of quarter dollar production at the U.S. Mint until the denomination resumed with a completely new design in 1815. All 220,643 coins were produced at the Philadelphia Mint by Chief Engraver Robert Scot, struck without a mint mark as was standard practice for Philadelphia during this era.

Despite its status as having the highest official mintage of the entire Draped Bust Quarter series, the 1807 is significantly scarcer than both the 1805 and 1806 issues. Numismatic researchers believe the official 1807 mintage figure, based on calendar-year delivery warrants, likely included a substantial quantity of 1806-dated coins struck in late 1806 but delivered in early 1807. This discrepancy makes the true mintage of 1807-dated quarters much lower than the official ledger suggests, aligning the coin's actual rarity more closely with population census data.

Today, the 1807 Quarter commands strong prices across all grades, from problem-free circulated examples starting around $264 to top-graded Mint State specimens reaching $750,000. This guide provides comprehensive pricing data, authentication insights, and grading diagnostics to help collectors accurately evaluate these historic coins.

Identification & Design Features

Philadelphia Mint did not use mint marks in 1807—all quarters were struck without a mint mark

The 1807 Quarter features the Draped Bust, Heraldic Eagle Reverse design (Type 2), which differs significantly from the earlier Type 1 Small Eagle reverse used only in 1796. Any 1807-dated coin with a Small Eagle reverse would be a counterfeit.

Obverse Design Diagnostics

The obverse features a right-facing bust of Liberty based on a portrait by Gilbert Stuart. Her hair is loosely tied with a ribbon. The word "LIBERTY" is inscribed above her head, and the date "1807" is centered below the bust. This design type features 13 stars representing the original colonies, arranged with seven stars to the left and six stars to the right of the portrait.

Reverse Design Diagnostics

The reverse displays a large heraldic eagle modeled after the Great Seal of the United States. A shield covers the eagle's breast. The eagle's right talon (viewer's left) grasps a bundle of arrows, while its left talon (viewer's right) holds an olive branch. A scroll in the eagle's beak is inscribed "E PLURIBUS UNUM". The inscription "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" encircles the eagle. The denomination "25 C." is located at the bottom rim, directly below the eagle.

Mint Mark

All 1807 quarters were struck at the Philadelphia Mint, which did not use a mint mark during this period. The absence of a mint mark is correct and expected for this issue.

Physical Specifications

• Weight: 6.74 grams (104.01 grains)
• Diameter: 27.5 mm
• Composition: 89.24% Silver, 10.76% Copper
• Actual Silver Weight (ASW): 0.1934 troy ounces
• Edge: Reeded

1807 Quarter Dollar Price Guide & Auction Records

Grade comparison: AG-3 ($264), VF-20 ($2,450), and MS-65 ($105,000)

The 1807 Draped Bust Quarter commands robust prices across all grades due to its historical significance and actual scarcity. The following values integrate data from PCGS and NGC retail price guides (as of October 2025 and December 2023, respectively) with verified recent auction results.

Consolidated Price Guide: All Varieties

Notable Recent Auction Results (2013-2025)

Recent auction activity demonstrates both the strong collector demand for this issue and the significant price variability at the highest grade levels, where pedigree and eye appeal drive values:

• MS-67 (PCGS):$630,000(Heritage Auctions, November 2020) — Auction Record
• MS-66 (PCGS, B-1, Eliasberg/Newman specimen):$411,250(Heritage Auctions, 2013)
• MS-66 (PCGS, B-2):$252,000(Heritage Auctions, August 2023)
• MS-65 (NGC, toned):$51,750(GreatCollections, April 2022)
• MS-64 (Heritage):$44,563(Heritage Auctions, January 2009)
• MS-64 (Heritage):$20,400(Heritage Auctions, June 2019)
• MS-63 (Heritage):$17,625(Heritage Auctions, February 2014)
• MS-60 (PCGS):$11,700(Auctioned, June 2013)

Die Variety-Specific Pricing

The 1807 Quarter exists in two known die marriages, with the scarcer B-2 variety commanding premiums, particularly in circulated grades where die variety specialists are most active:

1807 B-1 (Browning-1, Rarity-2 — More Common):

• VG-10 (PCGS):$528(Stack's Bowers, June 2025)
• MS-66 (PCGS, Eliasberg/Newman):$411,250(Heritage, 2013)

1807 B-2 (Browning-2, Rarity-3 — Scarcer):

• AG-3 (PCGS):$264(Stack's Bowers, October 2024)
• MS-66 (PCGS):$252,000(Heritage, August 2023)

The fact that a B-2 in AG-3 (seven grade points lower) achieved nearly half the price of a B-1 in VG-10 strongly suggests a significant collector premium for the scarcer B-2 variety in lower grades.

Grading the 1807 Draped Bust Quarter

Critical wear points: Liberty's hair, cheek, drapery lines, eagle's breast feathers

Grading the 1807 Quarter is notoriously challenging, even for experienced numismatists, due to the prevalence of weak strikes and the need to distinguish mint-made production characteristics from circulation wear.

Strike quality comparison—most 1807 quarters show weakness at the peripheries

Circulated Grades (AG-3 through AU-58)

About Good (AG-3): The date "1807" is barely readable. Liberty's portrait is mostly worn flat with only the outline visible. Stars are worn smooth. On the reverse, the eagle is identifiable but details are nearly gone. The denomination "25 C." may be partially worn away.

Good (G-4): The date is clear and readable. Liberty's outline is visible but facial features are worn away. Stars show as raised bumps but lack interior detail. The reverse eagle shows as a distinct outline with the shield partially visible. "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" is readable though letters may be weak.

Very Good (VG-8 to VG-10): Liberty's major hair outlines are visible, and drapery folds begin to appear. About 3-4 stars show partial interior detail. On the reverse, the eagle's breast shield shows clear separation from the body, and individual wing feathers begin to show as raised lines.

Fine (F-12 to F-15): Roughly half of Liberty's hair detail is visible, with clear separation between major hair strands. The drapery shows distinct folds at the shoulder. At least half the stars show interior detail. The reverse eagle displays clear feather separation in the wings, and the talons show distinct definition.

Very Fine (VF-20 to VF-30): Liberty's hair shows about 75% of its original detail, with fine hair lines visible above the forehead. The cheekbone shows light wear but remains distinct. All stars show interior lines. The reverse eagle displays crisp feather detail across most of the wings, and the arrows and olive branch are sharply defined.

Extremely Fine (EF-40 to EF-45): Liberty's hair retains nearly full detail with only slight flattening on the highest points above the forehead and ear. The cheek shows minimal wear. On the reverse, all eagle feathers are sharp except for slight flattening on the breast shield and highest wing points.

About Uncirculated (AU-50 to AU-58): Only the highest design points show slight wear. On the obverse, this includes Liberty's cheek, hair above the forehead, and the tips of the breast drapery. On the reverse, slight wear appears on the eagle's breast shield and highest wing feathers. Mint luster is present in protected areas (around letters and within star recesses) but may be disrupted in open fields.

Mint State Grades (MS-60 through MS-67)

MS-60 to MS-62: The coin shows no trace of circulation wear under magnification. However, the surfaces may have significant contact marks, bagmarks (from storage in mint bags), or small rim nicks. Luster may be subdued or uneven. Strike quality is often weak, particularly on peripheral elements.

MS-63 to MS-64: The coin displays better surface preservation with fewer and lighter contact marks. Luster is more vibrant and attractive. The strike may still show weakness in typical areas (stars, "LIBERTY" letters, "25 C." denomination) but is generally superior to lower Mint State grades. Eye appeal is enhanced by original, untoned surfaces or attractive, natural toning.

MS-65 to MS-66: Surfaces show minimal contact marks, typically only visible under magnification. Luster is full, vibrant, and unbroken. The strike approaches full definition, though some peripheral softness may remain. Original silver-gray surfaces or attractive golden-gray toning add to exceptional eye appeal. These grades are rare for the 1807 issue.

MS-67: This grade represents numismatic perfection for the issue. Surfaces are nearly flawless with only minute imperfections visible under magnification. Luster is deep, cartwheel-like, and mesmerizing. The strike is the sharpest obtainable for the issue, though even MS-67 specimens may show minor softness in peripheral areas due to die limitations. Only 1-2 examples are known at this grade level. The auction record stands at $630,000.

Critical Grading Challenge: Strike vs. Wear

The single greatest challenge in grading 1807 quarters is distinguishing weak strikes from circulation wear. Most 1807 quarters were weakly struck, with common areas of weakness including:

• Peripheral obverse stars (especially the 6 o'clock star below the bust)
• The letters in "LIBERTY"
• Liberty's hair curls at the forehead and ear
• The denomination "25 C." at the reverse bottom
• Eagle's wing feathers at the periphery

A coin may be fully Mint State (no wear) but lack sharp details in these areas due to weak die striking pressure. Conversely, a circulated coin will show flattening on the highest design points first: Liberty's cheek, hair above the forehead, and the eagle's breast shield. A professional numismatist examines the coin's surface texture and luster under magnification to make this determination. Weakly struck areas retain original mint luster and lack the flat, abraded appearance of circulation wear.

Die Varieties: Browning Attribution System

Die varieties B-1 (R-2) and B-2 (R-3) require specialized references for attribution

All early U.S. quarters (1796-1838) are attributed by die variety specialists using the numbering system established by A.W. Browning in his landmark 1925 work, The Early Quarter Dollars of the United States 1796-1838. Both PCGS and NGC recognize and attribute these varieties on their certification labels.

The 1807 issue is known to have been struck from only two different die marriages (unique combinations of an obverse and reverse die):

1807 B-1 (Browning-1)

• PCGS Number: 38939
• Rarity Rating: R-2 (more common variety)
• Known Population: Substantially more common than B-2, though still scarce in absolute terms
• Market Position: This is the variety most commonly encountered in the marketplace. Problem-free examples in circulated grades (VG-10 to VF-20) are the most accessible entry point for collectors seeking an 1807 Quarter.

1807 B-2 (Browning-2)

• PCGS Number: 38941
• Rarity Rating: R-3 (scarcer variety)
• Known Population: NGC analysis confirms B-2 is "slightly the more scarce" of the two varieties.
• Market Position: This variety commands a distinct premium over B-1, particularly in circulated grades where die variety collectors are most active. The October 2024 sale of a B-2 in AG-3 for $264 demonstrates strong collector interest even in the lowest grades.

Attribution Diagnostics

The document source material explicitly states: "No reliable public diagnostic information is available in the provided research to visually attribute these varieties." Specific die diagnostics—such as the exact position of date numerals relative to the bust, minor die cracks, die state progressions, or the position of reverse elements (leaves, arrows, feathers) relative to lettering—are required to differentiate B-1 from B-2.

Collectors and dealers seeking to attribute 1807 quarters must consult the primary numismatic references:

• A.W. Browning,The Early Quarter Dollars of the United States 1796-1838 (1925) — The foundational reference establishing the Browning numbering system.
• Steve M. Tompkins,Early United States Quarters 1796-1838 (2008) — The modern standard reference with updated diagnostics, die states, and rarity assessments.

For coins of significant value, submitting to PCGS or NGC for professional authentication and variety attribution is strongly recommended. Both services will identify the Browning variety on the certification label.

Mint Errors & Production Irregularities

Adjustment marks are mint-made file marks used to bring planchets to proper weight

It is essential to distinguish between true, collectible mint errors and common production characteristics of this early, manually-produced issue. Understanding this distinction prevents misidentification and helps collectors accurately assess a coin's significance and value.

Common Production Characteristics (Not Errors)

The following features are not considered collectible errors and are typical for the 1807 Quarter. They do not negatively impact a coin's grade or value:

Weak Strikes: This is the most prevalent characteristic of 1804-1807 Draped Bust Quarters. Weakness commonly appears at the coin's peripheries—obverse stars, letters in "LIBERTY", and the reverse denomination "25 C."—and is caused by insufficient striking force or die spacing issues during production. A fully struck example showing sharp detail in all these areas is a major rarity for the 1807 issue. Weak strikes do not affect a coin's grade as long as no circulation wear is present.

Clash Marks: Most 1807 quarters show evidence of die clashing, which occurs when the obverse and reverse dies strike each other without a planchet between them. This leaves faint, incuse ghost images of one side's design impressed onto the other side's die. Clash marks appear as raised, mirror-image design elements in unusual locations (e.g., faint eagle wing outlines on the obverse, or Liberty's profile features on the reverse). This is considered a normal part of the coin's manufacturing history and does not affect the grade unless the clashing is exceptionally severe.

Adjustment Marks: Many Draped Bust silver coins, including 1807 quarters, exhibit "adjustment marks"—parallel or irregular file marks visible on the coin's surface. These marks were made at the mint before striking to reduce overweight planchets to the legal standard weight (6.74 grams). Because adjustment marks are mint-made and part of the production process, they are not considered damage. Coins with adjustment marks receive "straight" (problem-free) grades from PCGS and NGC. Adjustment marks should not be confused with post-mint scratches, which are always considered damage.

Collectible Mint Errors (Valuation)

A comprehensive review of major auction archives reveals no recent sales of 1807 Draped Bust Quarters with significant, collectible mint errors such as off-center strikes, broadstrikes, major die cuds, or wrong planchet errors. The absence of such coins in the auction record strongly implies that major mint errors on the 1807 issue are exceedingly rare. Any genuine 1807 Quarter with a dramatic mint error would be a significant numismatic discovery and would command substantial premiums.

Minor Errors (Estimated Premiums):

• Planchet Laminations: A visible but minor planchet flaw (where a layer of metal has separated or is beginning to peel) might add a 10% to 25% premium to the coin's base value for its grade.
• Small Die Cuds: A small die cud (a raised lump of metal resulting from a broken area of the die) might similarly add 10% to 25%, depending on its size and visual appeal.

Major Errors (Theoretical Valuation):

• Off-Center Strikes: A coin struck 10% or more off-center, showing a clear crescent of blank planchet, would be highly prized. Its value would depend on the percentage off-center and whether the date remains visible. A conservatively estimated premium would be 2× to 5× the base coin's value for its grade.
• Broadstrikes: A coin struck without the retaining collar (appearing oversized with a flat, unformed edge) would similarly command multiples of the standard value, likely in the 2× to 4× range depending on eye appeal and completeness of strike.
• Wrong Planchet Errors: An 1807 Quarter struck on a planchet intended for a different denomination (e.g., a dime or half dollar planchet) would be extraordinarily rare and valuable, potentially achieving 5× to 10× or more the standard coin value.

Authentication & Counterfeit Detection

Authentication: genuine coins show sharp denticles, crisp lettering, and proper weight

Early U.S. silver coinage is a primary target for counterfeiters, with a significant number of modern, high-quality fakes originating from overseas sources. The 1807 Draped Bust Quarter, commanding four-figure prices even in low grades, is particularly vulnerable. Collectors must develop authentication skills and utilize third-party grading services for valuable purchases.

Key Diagnostic "Red Flags" of Counterfeits:

1. "Fuzzy" or Soft Details: Counterfeit coins often display indistinct, soft, or "mushy" details that lack the sharp, crisp definition of a genuine die-struck coin. Examine Liberty's hair strands, the interior lines of stars, individual feathers on the eagle, and letter edges under magnification. Genuine coins show razor-sharp transitions between raised and recessed areas. Counterfeits typically show rounded, blurred transitions.

2. Weak or Irregular Denticles: The denticles (small raised teeth around the inner rim) are a critical diagnostic area. On genuine coins, denticles are uniform in size, evenly spaced, and sharply formed. Counterfeit coins frequently show weak, missing, or irregularly-sized denticles, often with a "bumpy" or wave-like appearance. Some areas may have no denticles at all.

3. Raised Lumps or Tooling Marks: Examine the open fields (flat areas between design elements) and the areas around lettering under strong magnification. Look for small, raised dots, "pimples," or irregular bumps. These are common artifacts of the casting or spark-erosion die-making processes used by counterfeiters and are never seen on genuine U.S. Mint coins. Genuine coins have smooth, unblemished fields (apart from intended adjustment marks or die clashing).

4. Incorrect Weight: A genuine 1807 Quarter must weigh 6.74 grams (within a narrow tolerance of ±0.1 grams to account for circulation wear). Use a calibrated digital scale capable of measuring to 0.01-gram precision. Counterfeit coins are frequently underweight or made of base metal alloys (brass, copper-nickel, pewter) that have incorrect densities. If the coin weighs less than 6.6 grams or more than 6.9 grams, it is suspect.

5. Incorrect Composition: Genuine 1807 Quarters are 89.24% silver and 10.76% copper. While most collectors cannot perform XRF (X-ray fluorescence) analysis at home, professional grading services routinely test composition. A simple magnet test can rule out ferrous (iron-based) counterfeits, which will be attracted to a magnet. Genuine silver coins are not magnetic.

6. Artificial Aging or Damage: A common counterfeiter tactic is to artificially corrode, "age," or damage a fake coin to distract the buyer from authentication. A heavily corroded, pitted, or "crusty" coin should be treated with more suspicion, not less. Counterfeiters deliberately obscure diagnostic details by adding false patina or chemical stains. Do not assume that an "old-looking" coin is genuine.

Identifying Cleaned or Damaged Coins

A coin that has been cleaned, polished, harshly dipped, holed, scratched, bent, or otherwise damaged is not considered "collectible-grade." Grading services will return such coins in "Details" (ANACS), "Genuine" (PCGS/NGC), or "Authentic" holders with the specific problem noted (e.g., "Cleaned," "Scratched," "Holed"). These problem coins lose 50% to 75% or more of their retail value compared to problem-free specimens. Auction records confirm that 1807 quarters with cleaning or damage sell for $97 to $139, even though undamaged examples in similar grades bring $264 to $550.

Common Signs of Cleaning:

1. Reflective or Shiny Fields: This is the most obvious sign of cleaning. A circulated coin (e.g., VF-20 grade) should have dull, non-reflective surfaces in the open fields. If a circulated coin shows bright, shiny, or mirror-like fields, it has been polished with an abrasive compound or cloth. Mint State coins naturally have luster (a soft, satiny glow), but this is fundamentally different from the harsh, glassy shine produced by polishing.

2. Unnatural "Whiteness" or Color: Early silver coins should exhibit natural, aged patina—typically dove-gray, golden-gray, or dark gray toning acquired over 200+ years. An unnaturally white, "blasted," or chalky appearance indicates the coin was harshly dipped in a chemical solution (such as thiourea or commercial silver cleaner) to strip away toning. While light dipping is sometimes acceptable in the numismatic market, over-dipping destroys a coin's originality and surface texture.

3. Hairline Scratches: Fine, parallel scratches visible in the fields, especially when the coin is tilted under a single light source, are definitive evidence of abrasive polishing. These hairlines are caused by microscopic abrasives in polishing compounds. They are distinct from contact marks (which are random, non-parallel, and typically heavier) or die polish lines (which are raised, mint-made, and follow specific patterns related to die preparation).

Preservation & Storage Best Practices

Proper storage and handling are essential to protect the value and historical integrity of an 1807 Draped Bust Quarter. These coins have survived for over two centuries—preserving them for future generations requires careful stewardship.

Critical Rule: Never Clean or Polish

Any attempt to clean, polish, or "improve" a coin's appearance will permanently damage its surface and destroy its numismatic value. Even gentle wiping with a soft cloth creates microscopic scratches (hairlines) that are visible under magnification. Numismatic professionals can always detect cleaning, and cleaned coins are worth 50-75% less than problem-free examples. If a coin appears dirty or tarnished, leave it as-is or consult a professional conservator associated with a major grading service. Do not use household cleaners, silver polish, erasers, or any abrasive materials.

Environmental Controls

Store 1807 quarters in a cool, dry, and temperature-stable environment. Ideal conditions include:

• Temperature: 60-70°F (15-21°C) with minimal fluctuation
• Humidity: 40-50% relative humidity (use a dehumidifier in damp climates)
• Light: Avoid prolonged direct sunlight, which can cause uneven toning

Avoid storing coins in basements (which are often humid and prone to flooding) or attics (which experience extreme temperature swings). A climate-controlled interior closet or safe is ideal. Bank safe deposit boxes provide excellent security and stable conditions.

Proper Holders and Materials

Use only archival-quality, inert materials for coin storage. Improper storage materials cause permanent damage:

For Raw (Uncertified) Coins:

• Mylar Flips: Use only Mylar-based (polyethylene terephthalate) flips, which are free of PVC (polyvinyl chloride). PVC is a plasticizer that leaches from cheap vinyl flips over time, leaving green, oily residue on coins that causes permanent corrosion. Label all flips with the coin's attribution and grade estimate using acid-free paper inserts.
• Acid-Free Paper Envelopes: For long-term archival storage, high-quality acid-free paper envelopes (available from coin supply dealers) provide excellent protection. The paper absorbs excess moisture while allowing the coin to "breathe."

For Certified (Slabbed) Coins:

• Coins professionally encapsulated by PCGS or NGC are already in inert, sonically-sealed holders designed for long-term archival storage. No additional protection is needed. Store slabs upright in specialized slab boxes or holders.

Handling Guidelines

• Always handle coins by their edges. Never touch the obverse or reverse surfaces with bare fingers, as skin oils leave acidic residues that cause spotting over time.
• Wash hands thoroughly before handling coins to remove oils and contaminants.
• Handle coins over a soft, padded surface (such as a velvet pad) to prevent damage if dropped.
• For raw coins, consider wearing cotton or nitrile gloves, especially in dry climates where static electricity is a concern.

Recent Auction Results (2013-2025)

The following verified auction results demonstrate the sustained collector demand for the 1807 Draped Bust Quarter across all grades and varieties. Results span a 12-year period (2013-2025) and include sales from the industry's leading auction houses.

Market Observations:

• Top-Grade Specimens: The auction record for the series stands at $630,000 (MS-67, November 2020). The famous Eliasberg/Newman MS-66 specimen brought $411,250 in 2013, demonstrating that prestigious pedigrees can command premiums exceeding standard price guides.
• Grade Volatility: MS-64 specimens have sold for prices ranging from $20,400 to $44,563 depending on eye appeal, strike quality, and toning. This 218% variance emphasizes the importance of individual coin characteristics at high grades.
• Variety Premiums: The scarcer B-2 variety (R-3) shows evidence of commanding premiums in circulated grades, with an AG-3 example bringing $264 in 2024 while a higher-grade B-1 VG-10 sold for $528—a ratio suggesting significant die variety collector interest.
• Low-Grade Stability: Even the lowest collectible grades (AG-3 to G-4) maintain stable four-figure values, with no examples selling below $264 in problem-free condition over the 12-year survey period.

Frequently Asked Questions

Pricing Methodology & Data Sources

Values presented in this guide are derived from a synthesis of industry-standard retail price guides and verified public auction results. The primary sources include:

• PCGS Price Guide (October 2025) — pcgs.com/coinfacts
• NGC Coin Explorer Price Guide (December 2023) — ngccoin.com/coin-explorer
• Heritage Auctions Archive (2009-2025) — Multiple verified auction results
• Stack's Bowers Auction Archive (2024-2025) — stacksbowers.com
• GreatCollections Auction Archive (2013-2024) — greatcollections.com

Retail price guides represent typical dealer asking prices for problem-free, certified examples. Auction results represent actual realized prices (including buyer's premium) and provide real-world market validation. Where discrepancies exist between guides and auctions—particularly at high grades—the guide values are adjusted to reflect recent market activity.

Coin values fluctuate based on silver spot prices, overall collector demand, and the availability of high-grade specimens. Values provided represent market conditions as of October-November 2025. Buyers and sellers should consult current auction archives and dealer inventories for the most up-to-date pricing information.

Historical specifications, mintage data, and die variety information are sourced from Browning's 1925 work, Tompkins' 2008 reference, and official U.S. Mint records as documented by PCGS and NGC.