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Seated Liberty Quarter (1838-1891): A Collector’s Guide

The Seated Liberty Quarter, minted from 1838 to 1891, is a cornerstone of American numismatics. This iconic series represents the rich history of the United States Mint during a period of notable economic and social transformation. Designed by Christian Gobrecht, the Seated Liberty Quarter features Lady Liberty seated on a rock, holding a shield in one hand and a liberty pole in the other. The reverse side showcases an eagle with outstretched wings, holding arrows and an olive branch.

Historical Context and Design Evolution

The Seated Liberty Quarter was introduced as a replacement for the Capped Bust design. Gobrecht’s creation was inspired by Britannia, the symbol of Great Britain, reflecting the neoclassical art movement of the time. Over its 53-year production span, the Seated Liberty Quarter underwent several design modifications:

  • No Drapery (1838-1840): The earliest issues featured Liberty without the drapery at her elbow. These coins are relatively scarce and highly sought after by collectors.
  • With Drapery (1840-1865): In 1840, an additional fold of drapery was added to Liberty’s elbow, creating a more intricate design.
  • Arrows and Rays (1853): To indicate a reduction in the coin’s weight, arrows were placed at either side of the date, and rays surrounded the eagle on the reverse. This design lasted only one year.
  • Arrows (1854-1855): The rays were removed in 1854, but the arrows remained to signify the continued reduced weight.
  • No Motto (1838-1865): The initial series did not include the motto "In God We Trust."
  • With Motto (1866-1891): Post-Civil War, the motto "In God We Trust" was added to a fluttering banner above the eagle on the reverse side.

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Coin images sourced from: National Numismatic Collection, National Museum of American History

Key Date Issues

Key dates are highly sought after by collectors for their rarity and historical relevance. Here are some of the most notable key date issues in the Seated Liberty Quarter series:

  • 1838 and 1839 No Drapery: The first years of production, featuring the original design without the drapery. These are among the rarest and most valuable quarters.
  • 1853 Arrows and Rays: Minted only for one year, these quarters are highly desirable due to their unique design elements.
  • 1866 With Motto: The first year featuring the motto "In God We Trust," adding historical importance.
  • 1873-1874 Arrows: Reintroduced arrows to denote a weight change, these years are sought after for their distinct design feature.
  • 1878-CC: Minted at the Carson City Mint, this is one of the rarest and most valuable Seated Liberty Quarters, with a mintage of just 996 coins.
  • 1888-S: A key date from the San Francisco Mint, with a relatively low mintage of 77,000 coins, making it a valuable find in higher grades.

Collecting Seated Liberty Quarters

When collecting silver Seated Liberty Quarters, it’s essential to consider the coin’s condition, mintage, and historical context. Coins in higher grades, such as Mint State or Proof, command significantly higher premiums. Key date issues and coins with original luster and minimal wear are particularly valuable.

Value of the Seated Liberty Quarter

The Seated Liberty Quarter series offers a blend of historical value and investment potential. Key dates and high-grade specimens can fetch impressive sums at auction. For instance, an 1878-CC quarter in Mint State can command prices in the tens of thousands of dollars. Collectors should look for well-preserved coins with clear details to ensure they are investing in high-value pieces, and seek the advice of numismatic experts such as the Numismatic Guaranty Company (NGC) and the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS).

Enhance Your Collection with the Iconic Seated Liberty Quarters

The Seated Liberty Quarter series (1838-1891) is a fascinating journey through American history and coinage. With its elegant design and numerous key date issues, it offers collectors both aesthetic pleasure and notable investment opportunities. The enduring appeal and historical value of these quarters make them an excellent addition for any collector, whether new or seasoned. At Bullion Hunters, we provide expert advice and a wide selection of collectible coins. Visit our website or contact us to explore our inventory and enhance your collection with timeless American treasures.