1836 Capped Bust Quarter Value: Die Variety Price Guide
1836 Capped Bust Quarter values range from $100 in Good to $145,000 in MS-67. Includes complete guide to B-1 through B-5 die varieties, with B-5 bringing $6,000+ in any grade.
The 1836 Capped Bust Quarter is worth $100 to $145,000, with value determined primarily by grade and die variety.
- Circulated (G-4 to AU-58): $100 – $2,150 for common varieties
- Uncirculated (MS-60 to MS-64): $2,150 – $10,000
- Gem grades (MS-65+): $40,000 – $145,000
- Proof specimens: $97,750 (only a handful known)
- Rare B-5 variety: $5,287 – $6,000 in any grade
This single-year issue features five distinct die varieties cataloged in the Browning system, ranging from common (B-1, B-2, B-3) to exceptionally rare (B-5), creating a complex market where variety attribution is as important as grade.
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1836 Capped Bust Quarter Dollar: Overview
The 1836 Capped Bust Quarter was struck only at Philadelphia with no mint mark
The 1836 Capped Bust Quarter represents the final year of William Kneass's Reduced Diameter design, a single-year issue that has become a cornerstone for type set collectors. With a mintage of 472,000 pieces struck exclusively at the Philadelphia Mint, this coin might appear straightforward, but it conceals remarkable complexity beneath its unified production figures. The issue is defined by five distinct die varieties cataloged in the Browning attribution system, creating a bifurcated market where common varieties serve as accessible type coins priced primarily by grade, while scarce and rare varieties command premiums driven exclusively by their rarity.
Values span an extraordinary range from $100 for a circulated common variety to over $145,000 for gem Mint State examples, with the rare B-5 variety bringing $6,000 in any condition. This guide provides complete pricing data for all die varieties, detailed attribution diagnostics, grading insights specific to early silver quarters, and recent auction records that demonstrate real-world market performance.
How to Identify the 1836 Capped Bust Quarter
The 1836 Capped Bust Quarter is immediately recognizable as part of the Type 2 series, also known as the Reduced Diameter design. The obverse features Liberty facing left, wearing a cloth cap inscribed with "LIBERTY." Her hair flows in curls beneath the cap, with detailed strands visible on well-struck examples. Thirteen six-pointed stars encircle the portrait, representing the original states, with seven stars to the left and six to the right. The date 1836 appears below the bust.
The reverse displays a heraldic eagle with wings spread, holding three arrows in its left talon and an olive branch in its right. A shield protects the eagle's breast, and a banner above the eagle's head carries the motto "E PLURIBUS UNUM." The denomination "25 C." appears below the eagle, with "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" forming a circular legend around the border. The edge is uniformly reeded, a characteristic introduced with the close collar striking method adopted in 1831.
💡 No Mint Mark
All 1836 Capped Bust Quarters were struck at the Philadelphia Mint. Unlike later quarter issues that display mint marks, this coin bears no letter designation. The absence of a mint mark is normal and correct for this date.
The coin's physical specifications are critical for authentication. Genuine examples measure exactly 24.3 millimeters in diameter, weigh 6.74 grams, and contain 0.1933 troy ounces of silver in an 89.2% silver, 10.8% copper composition. The reduced diameter distinguishes Type 2 quarters from the larger Type 1 issues struck from 1815 to 1828.
For collectors pursuing die variety attribution, specific diagnostic features become essential. These include the precise positioning of the date numerals relative to Liberty's hair curl, the placement of the period after "C" in the denomination, whether the eagle displays a visible tongue, and most significantly, the presence and location of die cracks that developed as the dies deteriorated during production. These diagnostics are detailed in the Die Varieties section of this guide.
1836 Capped Bust Quarter Value by Grade
The market for 1836 Capped Bust Quarters is robust, driven by demand from type set collectors who seek a representative example of the Reduced Diameter series. The following values represent the three common varieties (Browning-1, Browning-2, and Browning-3), which constitute the vast majority of surviving examples and typically trade interchangeably at standard type coin prices. Values for the scarce B-4 and rare B-5 varieties are addressed separately due to their rarity-driven premiums.
Common Varieties (B-1, B-2, B-3) Price Table
Price data compiled from the PCGS Price Guide and NGC Price Guide, both accessed October 2025.
| Grade | PCGS Price | NGC Price |
|---|---|---|
| G-4 | $125 | $100 |
| VG-8 | $135 | $130 |
| F-12 | $140 | $150 |
| VF-20 | $215 | $275 |
| EF-40 | $475 | $500 |
| AU-50 | $900 | $700 |
| AU-58 | $2,150 | $1,650 |
| MS-60 | $2,500 | $2,150 |
| MS-61 | $2,750 | $2,500 |
| MS-62 | $3,150 | $3,250 |
| MS-63 | $4,350 | $5,000 |
| MS-64 | $10,000 | $10,000 |
| MS-65 | $42,500 | $40,000 |
| MS-66 | $75,000 | $75,000 |
| MS-67 | $125,000 | $145,000 |
The pricing structure reveals a dramatic "Mint State wall" where values escalate exponentially as coins approach and enter uncirculated grades. The transition from high-end circulated (AU-58 at around $1,650-$2,150) to mid-range Mint State (MS-63 at $4,350-$5,000) represents a significant jump that reflects the scarcity of examples that never entered circulation. Gem grades are exceptionally rare, with only around three dozen examples estimated to exist in any Mint State grade across all varieties.
Browning-4 (B-4) Variety
The B-4 variety carries a Rarity-4 classification, indicating very scarce availability. While no standardized price guide exists for this variety due to its limited market appearances, auction records provide valuation benchmarks. An MS-64 example that served as the plate coin for a major reference work demonstrates the variety's significance to specialists. Even problem coins command premiums: an AU Details (Cleaned) example sold for $312 in April 2025 (PCGS Auction Prices), well above what a cleaned common variety would achieve.
Browning-5 (B-5) Variety
The B-5 represents the premier circulation strike rarity of the year, rated R-6+ with an estimated population of only 15 to 18 pieces known in all grades. Discovered as recently as 1988, any market appearance generates significant collector interest. Recent auction records demonstrate that value is determined almost entirely by rarity rather than grade:
- $6,000 for XF-45 (NGC), May 2024 (Heritage Auctions)
- $5,287.50 for VG-8 (PCGS), June 2013 (Stack's Bowers)
The minimal price differential between a VG-8 and XF-45 underscores the intensity of demand from variety specialists who require an example for their collections regardless of grade.
Proof Strikes
Proof 1836 Quarters represent the absolute apex of rarity for this issue. Struck from the B-2 die pair for presentation purposes, the surviving population is estimated at fewer than ten pieces, with only three currently certified by major grading services. The finest known example, graded PR67 by NGC from the legendary Eliasberg collection, realized $97,750 in January 2006 (Heritage Auctions). These coins are major numismatic treasures that rarely appear at public auction.
Melt Value Context
Based on a silver spot price of $48.89 per troy ounce as of November 2, 2025, the intrinsic bullion value of an 1836 Quarter is approximately $9.45. This represents less than 10% of even the lowest collectible grade value, confirming that the market for this coin is driven entirely by numismatic factors rather than precious metal content.
Grading the 1836 Capped Bust Quarter
Grade comparison: circulated versus uncirculated examples
Accurate grading of the 1836 Capped Bust Quarter requires understanding both circulation wear patterns and the inherent striking characteristics of early U.S. silver coinage. The highest points of the design are the first areas to show wear and serve as primary grading indicators.
On the obverse, examine Liberty's hair above her forehead and ear closely. In About Uncirculated grades, slight friction will first appear on these high points. In Very Fine and Extremely Fine grades, the hair strands remain distinct but show flattening from wear. In Fine and Very Good grades, the hair becomes increasingly smooth, with individual curls merging together. The drapery clasp at Liberty's shoulder is another critical area, showing progressive wear that helps distinguish between grades.
Key areas to examine when grading: hair above ear, drapery clasp, eagle's head
The reverse grading points center on the eagle's head and the tail feathers below the shield. In high grades, these features show sharp definition with individual feather lines visible. As wear progresses through the Extremely Fine to Fine range, these details soften and eventually merge. The eagle's breast feathers and wing tips also exhibit wear, though these are secondary grading points. The shield's vertical lines should remain visible even in lower grades unless strike weakness is present.
⚠️ Strike Weakness vs. Wear
Some 1836 Quarters were struck with inherent weakness in certain design areas, particularly the centers of the obverse stars and Liberty's hair curl. This manufacturing characteristic should not be confused with circulation wear. A coin can grade Mint State despite weak star centers if the high points show no friction and original mint luster is present throughout.
Mint State examples are distinguished by complete absence of friction on the high points and presence of original mint luster. The luster on early silver quarters typically appears satiny rather than blazing, and many examples exhibit attractive original toning ranging from light gold to deeper gray tones. Some B-2 examples display prooflike surfaces with partial mirror reflectivity in the fields, though these were business strikes and not intentionally produced as proofs.
Die cracks are a fundamental characteristic of this issue and integral to variety attribution. Unless exceptionally severe, die cracks should not be considered a grading penalty. In fact, the prominent die cracks on varieties like B-1 and B-5 are essential diagnostic features that confirm authenticity and add historical interest to the coin.
When evaluating uncertified examples, distinguish between original surfaces and coins that have been cleaned or artificially enhanced. Original uncleaned examples will show natural toning patterns, consistent luster, and no hairline scratches in the fields. Professional grading services have standardized the market for these early quarters, with certification providing authentication and grade consensus that significantly impacts marketability.
Die Varieties of the 1836 Capped Bust Quarter
Key diagnostic differences between the three common Browning varieties
The 1836 Capped Bust Quarter is cataloged using the Browning attribution system established in A.W. Browning's 1925 reference The Early Quarter Dollars of the United States. Five distinct die marriages are known, each with unique diagnostics, rarity ratings, and market valuations. Die variety collecting represents a specialized segment of the market where rarity can supersede grade as the primary value determinant.
Browning-1 (B-1), Rarity-3
The B-1 variety is classified as Rarity-3, indicating scarcity but general availability to dedicated collectors. Its defining feature is a major bisecting die crack that appears in later die states, running vertically from star 7 down through Liberty's cap and bust to the rim just right of the date. Additional cracks often intersect this primary fissure, creating a dramatically shattered appearance. The reverse exhibits a crack connecting the base of the D in UNITED to the word STATE.
While circulated examples can be obtained, Mint State specimens are very rare, with only three reported. An MS-65 example sold in August 2024 for $24,000, down from $30,030 in February 2023 and $42,300 in May 2015 (PCGS Auction Prices), demonstrating some volatility in the high-end variety market.
Browning-2 (B-2), Rarity-1 to Rarity-2
As the most common die marriage, B-2 typically trades at baseline values for the date. Key diagnostics include the date position, with the digit 6 positioned partially to the left of Liberty's lowest hair curl. On the reverse, the period after the C in "25 C." is positioned close to the letter. The B-2 variety holds historical significance as the die pair used for all known genuine Proof strikes of 1836, suggesting these dies were in fresh, well-prepared condition when selected for special presentation pieces. Some business strikes from these dies exhibit prooflike surfaces with partial mirror reflectivity.
Browning-3 (B-3), Rarity-1
The B-3 is another common variety with straightforward attribution features. The obverse displays a low date position, with the large digit 6 situated approximately halfway under Liberty's hair curl. The reverse is distinguished by a visible tongue in the eagle's beak and the tip of the olive branch extending over the right portion of the C in "25 C." Later die states show prominent die cracks on both sides, marketed as points of interest but not commanding significant premiums for the common variety.
Browning-4 (B-4), Rarity-4
The B-4 variety carries a Rarity-4 classification, indicating very scarce availability that commands premiums over common varieties. Early die states, cataloged as Tompkins 1/1, show clean surfaces before crack formation and represent the rarest state of this already scarce marriage. Later states exhibit lengthy radial die cracks on both obverse and reverse. The obverse die from B-4 would later be used in a terminally shattered state to produce the even rarer B-5 variety. High-grade examples are highly prized by specialists, with an MS-64 specimen serving as the plate coin for a major reference work.
Browning-5 (B-5), Rarity-6+
The rare B-5 variety shows a prominent vertical crack from terminally shattered die
The B-5 represents the premier rarity among circulation strikes, unknown to numismatists until its discovery in 1988. With an estimated population of only 15 to 18 coins in all conditions, it is rated R-6+ and represents a major find for any collector. The variety is easily identified by the reuse of the B-4 obverse die in its final, catastrophically shattered state. A prominent vertical die crack bisects Liberty's cap and face, creating a dramatic and unmistakable diagnostic. The reverse die exhibits an arcing crack through the word STATE.
The extreme die failure explains the variety's rarity—the obverse die was immediately retired after these few coins were struck. Value is driven almost entirely by rarity regardless of grade, with recent auction results ranging from $5,287 for VG-8 to $6,000 for XF-45, demonstrating minimal price differentiation across grades due to intense specialist demand.
Mint Errors on the 1836 Capped Bust Quarter
Die crack progression helps attribute varieties and die states
While die cracks are the most prevalent production characteristic of the 1836 Capped Bust Quarter, other mint errors exist but are significantly less common than on earlier open-collar issues. The introduction of the close collar striking method in 1831 dramatically reduced the frequency of certain error types.
Die Cracks and Die Breaks
Significant die cracks are not merely errors but fundamental characteristics integral to the identity of multiple varieties. The dramatic bisecting crack on B-1, the radial cracks on B-4, and especially the shattered die state on B-5 serve as essential diagnostic markers for attribution. These are not valued as errors in the traditional sense but rather as defining features of specific die states that specialists actively seek.
Unattributed examples with prominent die cracks may be marketed generically as "error coins" and can command modest premiums. An ungraded example with a described "split die crack" was recently offered for $190, representing a small premium over typical circulated values. However, proper attribution to a specific Browning variety will typically yield higher values, particularly for the scarce B-4 and rare B-5.
Lamination Flaws
Planchet lamination errors, where a portion of the coin's surface flakes or peels away, are occasionally encountered on 1836 Quarters. These result from impurities or air pockets in the planchet metal that cause separation of metal layers after striking. A minor retained lamination was documented on a B-4 specimen. Unless the lamination is particularly large or dramatically affects the coin's appearance, these errors typically do not add significant value and may actually reduce desirability if they obscure important design details.
Off-Center Strikes and Broadstrikes
The close collar technology adopted for the Reduced Diameter series made off-center strikes and broadstrikes considerably less common than on earlier Capped Bust issues struck with open collars. No specific examples of 1836 Quarters with these dramatic errors were identified in major auction archives during research for this guide. If discovered, valuation would depend on the severity of the error, with more dramatic misalignments (particularly 25-50% off-center with a full date visible) commanding substantial premiums from error collectors.
Over-Denomination Errors
The Capped Bust Quarter series includes notable over-denomination errors, specifically the 1822 and 1828 "25/50 C." varieties where a reverse die intended for a half dollar was corrected for use on a quarter. An 1828 example of this error realized $282,000 at auction (Stack's Bowers). No such over-denomination error is known for the 1836 date, making it a theoretical possibility that would represent a major discovery if found.
Authentication and Problem Detection
Authenticating an 1836 Capped Bust Quarter requires systematic examination of physical characteristics, strike quality, and surface integrity. Genuine examples exhibit specific attributes that distinguish them from counterfeits and help identify coins with problems that affect value.
Cleaned coins show parallel hairlines and lack original luster
The coin's specifications provide the first authentication checkpoint. Genuine pieces measure exactly 24.3 millimeters in diameter, weigh 6.74 grams, and were struck with a close collar that produces a uniform reeded edge. Any deviation from these measurements indicates a potential problem. The specific gravity of the coin can be tested by experienced collectors, as the 89.2% silver composition yields a characteristic density that differs from base metal counterfeits.
Strike sharpness serves as a critical diagnostic for authenticity. Examine the fine details of Liberty's hair strands, the centers of the obverse stars, and the individual feathers on the eagle's wings and breast. While some striking weakness is normal on certain die varieties, genuine coins display a level of detail and crispness that cast counterfeits cannot replicate. Pay particular attention to the reeding on the edge—it should be sharp, uniform, and evenly spaced. Poorly defined or irregular reeding suggests a cast copy.
The ring test provides a quick preliminary authentication method. When balanced on a fingertip and tapped gently with another coin, genuine silver quarters produce a distinct, clear, high-pitched ring that sustains for several seconds. Cast counterfeits typically yield a dull, hollow sound due to inferior metal composition and internal porosity. However, this test should be supplemented with other authentication methods, as some struck counterfeits can pass the ring test.
Numismatists should be aware of "family fake" counterfeits where dies were created from a single genuine host coin and then altered to produce fakes of multiple dates. These deceptive counterfeits can be identified by looking for non-original marks, scratches, or depressions that appear in identical positions on coins of different dates. Consulting reference materials showing known counterfeit diagnostics is essential for collectors operating outside the safety of third-party certification.
Cleaning is the most common problem affecting 1836 Quarters. Signs include fine, parallel hairline scratches across the coin's fields, visible under magnification or with proper lighting angles. Cleaned coins often display an unnaturally bright or washed-out appearance, with luster that looks harsh rather than satiny. Toning on cleaned coins may appear uneven, splotchy, or artificially induced. Major grading services will encapsulate cleaned coins with a "Details" grade designation, significantly reducing market value compared to problem-free examples in the same technical grade.
Other surface problems to identify include rim damage, heavy scratches, corrosion, environmental damage, and evidence of past repair attempts. These issues are disclosed through Details grades by certification services. For high-value varieties like the B-5 or for Mint State examples where even minor problems dramatically affect value, purchasing certified coins from PCGS or NGC provides protection through expert authentication and grade opinion that the market accepts as standard.
Preservation and Care
Proper preservation is essential to maintaining the condition and value of an 1836 Capped Bust Quarter. Silver coins are susceptible to environmental damage, and early U.S. issues with their relatively soft striking metal composition require particularly careful handling and storage.
The ideal storage environment is inert and stable, free from atmospheric contaminants and humidity fluctuations. Encapsulated holders from reputable third-party grading services like PCGS and NGC provide the highest level of protection, as these sonically sealed plastic slabs create a stable micro-environment around the coin while permitting viewing from both sides. For collectors with unencapsulated examples, individual coin holders made from inert plastics (specifically those labeled as polyethylene, polypropylene, or Mylar) should be used. Avoid holders made from polyvinyl chloride (PVC), as this material releases harmful plasticizers that can cause irreversible green residue and surface damage to silver coins.
If handling a raw coin is necessary, proper technique is critical. Hold the coin only by its edges, never touching the obverse or reverse surfaces. Wearing soft cotton gloves eliminates the risk of transferring oils, acids, and moisture from skin to the coin's surface—contaminants that can cause toning, spots, or corrosion over time. Handle the coin over a soft surface such as a felt mat or padded tray to prevent damage if accidentally dropped.
⚠️ Never Clean Your Coins
Cleaning or attempting to improve the appearance of an 1836 Quarter will destroy its value. Even gentle cleaning creates microscopic scratches that are immediately apparent to experienced collectors and grading services. Original surfaces, including natural toning, are highly valued by the numismatic market. A cleaned coin may retain only 30-50% of the value it would have commanded in original condition.
Store coins in a location with stable temperature and low humidity, away from direct sunlight, chemical fumes, and potential sources of environmental contamination. A home safe or bank safety deposit box provides both security and environmental protection. Avoid storing coins in damp basements or hot attics where temperature swings and humidity can accelerate toning and surface degradation.
For high-value specimens such as Mint State examples, proof strikes, or rare varieties like the B-5, professional certification is recommended not only for authentication and grade consensus but also for the superior long-term protection that certified holders provide. The encapsulation process creates a sealed environment that has been demonstrated through decades of use to preserve coins effectively while permitting display and enjoyment of the piece.
Recent Auction Results
Auction records provide real-world evidence of market performance for the 1836 Capped Bust Quarter across different varieties and grades. The following results represent actual prices realized in recent years, offering collectors guidance on current market values beyond published price guides.
For the rare B-5 variety, auction appearances are significant events given the tiny population of 15-18 known examples. A VG-8 example certified by PCGS sold for $5,287.50 in June 2013 (Stack's Bowers), while an XF-45 graded by NGC brought $6,000 in May 2024 (Heritage Auctions). The minimal price difference between these grades demonstrates that rarity drives value almost entirely, with grade being a secondary consideration for this variety.
The scarce B-1 variety shows greater price volatility in high grades. An MS-65 example with CAC approval sold for $24,000 in August 2024, representing a decline from the same coin's $30,030 result in February 2023 and $42,300 in May 2015 (PCGS Auction Prices). This price movement reflects the illiquid nature of the high-end variety market where individual coin characteristics and buyer competition can significantly influence results.
Even problem coins from scarce varieties command premiums. A B-4 variety graded AU Details (Cleaned) by PCGS realized $312 in April 2025 (PCGS Auction Prices), well above typical pricing for cleaned common varieties, demonstrating that variety specialists will pursue examples across all grades and problem levels.
The apex of rarity is represented by Proof strikes, with the finest known example—the PR67 from the Eliasberg collection—having realized $97,750 in January 2006 (Heritage Auctions). Given the extreme rarity of fewer than ten known Proof 1836 Quarters, any future auction appearance would likely generate significant interest and potentially establish new price records for the issue.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is my 1836 Capped Bust Quarter worth?
Value depends on grade and die variety. Common varieties (B-1, B-2, B-3) in circulated condition range from $100 to $2,150, while Mint State examples span $2,500 to $145,000 for gem grades. The rare B-5 variety commands $5,000 to $6,000 in any condition, and Proof strikes have sold for nearly $100,000.
Why doesn't my 1836 Quarter have a mint mark?
All 1836 Capped Bust Quarters were struck at the Philadelphia Mint, which did not use mint marks during this period. The absence of a mint mark is normal and correct for this date. Mint marks would not appear on quarters until later in U.S. coinage history.
What are the different die varieties of the 1836 Quarter?
Five die varieties exist, cataloged as Browning-1 through Browning-5. B-1, B-2, and B-3 are common varieties that trade at similar prices based primarily on grade. B-4 is very scarce (Rarity-4) and commands premiums. B-5 is extremely rare (Rarity-6+) with only 15-18 examples known, bringing thousands of dollars in any condition. Each variety is identified by specific diagnostics including date position, die cracks, and reverse features.
How can I tell if my 1836 Quarter has been cleaned?
Signs of cleaning include fine parallel hairline scratches visible in the fields under magnification or proper lighting, an unnaturally bright or washed-out appearance, harsh rather than satiny luster, and uneven or artificial-looking toning. Original uncleaned coins display natural toning patterns, consistent luster, and surfaces free from hairlines. Cleaned coins receive Details grades from certification services and are worth significantly less than problem-free examples.
Should I get my 1836 Quarter professionally graded?
Professional grading through PCGS or NGC is recommended for Mint State examples, proof strikes, rare varieties (especially B-4 and B-5), and any coin you believe may grade EF-40 or higher. Certification provides authentication, standardized grade consensus, and superior long-term protection. For common varieties in lower circulated grades, certification costs may exceed the modest value premium, though certification still adds marketability and buyer confidence.
What is the B-5 variety and why is it so valuable?
The B-5 variety was unknown to numismatists until its discovery in 1988. It uses the obverse die from B-4 in its final, catastrophically shattered state, showing a dramatic vertical crack through Liberty's cap and face. With only 15-18 examples known in all grades, it is rated R-6+ (very rare). Its value of $5,000 to $6,000 is driven almost entirely by rarity, with grade being a secondary factor.
How do I store my 1836 Quarter to preserve its value?
Store in an inert environment using holders made from polyethylene, polypropylene, or Mylar (never PVC). Certified slabs from PCGS or NGC provide optimal protection. Keep coins in a stable temperature location with low humidity, away from direct sunlight and chemical fumes. When handling raw coins, hold only by the edges using soft cotton gloves. Never attempt to clean or improve the coin's appearance.
Are there any Proof 1836 Quarters?
Yes, but they are exceedingly rare. Fewer than ten Proof 1836 Quarters are believed to exist, all struck from the B-2 die pair. These were produced for presentation purposes using specially prepared planchets and dies. The finest known example, graded PR67 by NGC, sold for $97,750 in 2006. Only three specimens are currently certified by major grading services, with a fourth housed in the Smithsonian Institution.
What is the melt value of an 1836 Quarter?
Based on current silver prices, the intrinsic bullion value is approximately $9.45, calculated from 0.1933 troy ounces of silver content. This represents less than 10% of even the lowest collectible grade value, confirming that market value is driven by numismatic factors rather than metal content. Even heavily worn examples are worth ten times their melt value.
How can I identify which variety I have?
Variety attribution requires examining specific diagnostic features. Check the date position relative to Liberty's curl (B-3 has the 6 halfway under the curl). Look for die cracks (B-1 has a major bisecting crack from star 7, B-5 has a vertical crack through Liberty's face). Examine the reverse period placement after "C" (B-2 has it close to the C). Consulting illustrated variety guides or submitting to a certification service for attribution provides definitive identification.
Research Methodology and Sources
This comprehensive value guide synthesizes data from multiple authoritative sources to provide accurate, current market information for the 1836 Capped Bust Quarter. Price data was compiled from the PCGS CoinFacts and NGC Coin Explorer databases, both accessed in October 2025. Auction results were verified through Heritage Auctions archives and Stack's Bowers auction records, including specific lot citations for major sales.
Die variety information and diagnostics follow the Browning attribution system established in A.W. Browning's 1925 reference The Early Quarter Dollars of the United States, the standard system used by specialists for this series. Rarity ratings reflect current population estimates based on grading service census data and specialist knowledge of surviving populations.
Technical specifications including weight, diameter, composition, and mintage figures were cross-referenced from multiple sources including Stack's Bowers Coin Resource Center and the Newman Numismatic Portal encyclopedia.
💡 Market Fluidity Notice
Coin values fluctuate based on precious metal prices, collector demand, and individual coin characteristics. Prices in this guide represent market trends as of publication but should be confirmed with current dealer quotes or recent auction results for specific buying or selling decisions. Rare varieties and high-grade examples may exhibit significant price volatility due to the illiquid nature of specialized markets.
