The 1808 quarter eagle is a rare, famous and eagerly sought one-year type in the early U.S. gold coin series, here offered at a more affordable level of preservation. Both sides of this coin are vividly toned with a tinge of pale rose-red on attractive gold surfaces. The devices retain pleasingly bold definition that even extends to the borders, the latter area often problematic with scant denticulation and far less detail to the peripheral devices than evident here. Almost certainly a former jewelry piece, the surfaces are glossy in texture, although the plug referred to on the PCGS insert has been exceptionally well executed at the upper obverse border and is not readily evident on either side of the coin. With much to offer the budget-minded type collector or early gold enthusiast, this boldly defined EF will certainly find many eager buyers in todays market.The 1808 introduced John Reichs famous Capped Bust motif to the quarter eagle series. Since this turned out to be the Mints final quarter eagle delivery prior to 1821, the 1808 became a one-year type that has long enjoyed strong collector demand in all grades. The mintage for this design type is a mere 2,710 pieces, and with no more than 150 coins believed extant, every offering of an 1808 quarter eagle represents an important opportunity for collectors seeking to assemble complete type sets of classic U.S. Mint gold coinage. The Griggs specimen, offered here, would make a significant addition to an advanced cabinet.
