Early U.S. Coins: The Eagle on Globe Quarter Dollar
Although the first official U.S. coins were struck in 1793, there were many pattern coins minted before choosing the ideal coin designs to represent our country. A pattern coin is a coin that has not been approved for release but has been struck specifically for the purpose of evaluating the design. These pattern coins are struck in minuscule quantities and often have mintages in the single digits.
Rare Collectibles TV is lucky enough to have the privilege of sharing a private collection that includes one of the earliest U.S. pattern coins, struck the year prior to the official opening of the U.S. Mint. In this post we’ll tell you about the 1792 Eagle on Globe Quarter Dollar, which is a remarkable coin as it is one of just two examples that are known to exist. Graded Mint State 63, this stunning coin has been kept in significantly better condition than its AU50 counterpart, which is housed at the Smithsonian Institution.
Joseph Wright, renowned American painter born in Bordentown, New Jersey, is responsible for this remarkable coin design. The obverse of this mesmerizing coin showcases one of the most stunning renditions of Lady Liberty that has ever been struck onto a U.S. coin. Wright chose his wife, Sarah, as the model for this coin to immortalize her stunning beauty.
Unlike, many pattern coins that were created before the official release of U.S. coinage, the obverse of the Eagle on Globe Quarter Dollar is inscribed with just the word “LIBERTY.” Most pattern coins of this time, however, had the lengthy inscription of “LIBERTY PARENT OF SCIENCE & INDUSTRY” on the obverse. Unlike those, the Eagle on Globe Quarter Dollar is inscribed with just the word “LIBERTY”. As official coinage began production at the U.S. Mint it was decided that, like the Eagle on Globe Quarter, only the word “LIBERTY” would appear on the obverse establishing the layout for generations of future American coins to come.
The reverse of this Quarter Dollar bears an eagle that is significantly different than that of other early United States pattern coins. Perched atop the earth, this eagle is valiant in stature as it exudes the air of a sovereign guardian.
In 1792, Jospeh Wright was working with the United States Mint as a die-sinker, and although he was never officially given the title of Engraver, it is believed that he more or less fulfilled this role. This theory is held by many due to a letter addressed to George Washington from Thomas Jefferson shortly after the death of Wright. In this letter, Thomas Jefferson explains that due to the passing of Wright, “[the Mint] will require a new nomination for engraver.” This suggests that Wright was the original nominee for the First Chief Engraver position of the United States Mint before his death.
As one of just 2 examples known, one of which is unattainable as it is part of the Smithsonian’s collection, this finest known 1792 Eagle on Globe Quarter Dollar is valued at $3,800,000.
Here at Rare Collectibles TV, we strive to share with you the finest examples of the rarest numismatic treasures. Be sure to check our Hall of Fame for more of these exemplary coins.
