Under the Coinage Act of 1792, the Draped Bust Quarters were struck in a composition of 89.24% silver and 10.76% copper, with a weight of 6.74 grams (104 grains). The coins have a diameter of 27.5 mm and are struck with a reeded edge.
As for all American coins up to the latter part of the 1830’s, all Draped Bust Quarters were minted at the Philadelphia Mint, the only mint facility in operation at the time.
Production quality for these early quarters varies from issue to issue and from variety to variety. The later issues of the second subtype are usually more weakly struck than the first subtype, although above average examples are sometimes found. Eye-appeal can also vary greatly, with original and appealing pieces in the distinct minority.
Variety collecting for this series is not as popular as for the larger half dollars, although a few devoted collectors exist, and some varieties sell for reasonable premiums.
