Most coins are made to perfection… but every now and then, a minting flaw creates a legend. That’s exactly what happened with the 1796 “Blob Face” Drummer Boy Quarter — one of the rarest and most mysterious early U.S. coins, now whispered to be worth up to $1.5 million. 
Let’s dive into the bizarre story behind this numismatic mystery…
Historical Significance
The 1796 Draped Bust Quarter was one of America’s very first quarters. But a strange, almost mythical variety known as the “Blob Face Drummer Boy Error” has captured collector imaginations for centuries.
Why it’s so unusual:
Blob on Liberty’s face – looks melted or distorted
Motto error – reads “E PLURIBUS UNION” instead of “UNUM”
Extra drumstick on the reverse (only 2–3 examples rumored)
With only a handful of specimens said to exist, this error has become a Holy Grail of American coinage.
Key Identifiers
Obverse (“Blob Face” Front):
- Liberty’s face looks warped with a strange lump
- 15 stars (13 colonies + Vermont & Kentucky), but some appear misshapen
Reverse (“Drummer Boy” Back):
- An unexplained third drumstick near the eagle’s wing
- Motto misprint: “E PLURIBUS UNION” instead of “UNUM”
Specs (authentic examples match):
- Weight: 6.74g
- Diameter: 27mm
- Edge: Reeded
- Metal: 90% silver
Market Value (2024 Estimates)
| Grade | Description | Value Range |
|---|---|---|
| VF-20 | Worn but visible blob | $500K – $750K |
| XF-40 | Clear errors, light wear | $1M – $1.2M |
| MS-63+ | Sharp details, blazing luster | $1.5M+ |
Rumor Mill: In 2023, whispers in the numismatic world claimed a PCGS XF-45 “Blob Face” sold privately for $1.5M.
Beware of Fakes!
Scammers love this legend. Look out for:
Smooth edges (real coins are reeded)
Correct “UNUM” motto (the true error must read UNION)
Added blobs (sloppy counterfeits often try to fake the face lump)
The Error That Made History
Experts speculate this mythical error was caused by:
- A cracked die (causing the blob)
- An engraver slip-up (UNION vs UNUM)
- A double strike (producing the 3rd drumstick)
Most were said to be destroyed at the Mint… but a few slipped out.
Why Collectors Pay Millions
Registry sets: Top collectors need it
Auction hype: Could push MS coins to $2M+- Pedigree premiums: Coins tied to famous estates bring 20% more
How to Sell a “Blob Face” Quarter
- Submit to PCGS or NGC (grading fees $500+)
- Auction with Heritage or Stack’s Bowers
- Prove authenticity with family history or past sales
Collector’s Takeaway
If your 1796 quarter shows a blob on Liberty’s face, a third drumstick, and “UNION” instead of “UNUM”… you might just be holding a $1.5 million myth come true.
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