By: Mobin
Struck for just one year, the 1796 marked the first date of issue for the scarce Turban Head Quarter Eagle series.
The production used an early Draped Bust design by prominent early mint engraver Robert Scot, later reworked into the Turban Head motif.
Only 963 examples were minted of this inaugural Quarter Eagle issue according to surviving documents.
Today it's estimated that only around 60-75 authenticated survivors exist, rating the issue as an R.7 rarity per Sheldon Scale.
In upper grades like MS63 or MS64, the 1796 Turban Head $2.50 commands auction prices over $100,000.
Lasting just one year, the 1796 Quarter Eagle stands alone as its own unique one-year gold type coin.
The stars featured on the obverse make this 1796 Turban Head variant highly desired by variety specialists.