Seated Liberty Quarter Value
1838–1891 · 25¢ · 90% silver, 10% copper
Value by Grade
| Grade | Est. Value |
|---|---|
| Poor (P-1) | $15.00 |
| Good (G-4) | $30.00 |
| Fine (F-12) | $80.00 |
| Uncirculated (MS-63) | $400.00 |
| Gem (MS-65) | $1,200 |
| Perfect (MS-70) | $6,000 |
Key Dates & Rare Varieties
| Date/Variety | Why It's Special | Value Range |
|---|---|---|
| 1873-CC | No Arrows variety — only 4,000 struck, almost all melted | $50,000–$200,000+ |
| 1871-CC | First Carson City quarter, rare in all grades | $2,000–$30,000 |
| 1842-O | Small Date variety, very scarce | $500–$10,000 |
| 1860-S | Low mintage San Francisco issue of 56,000 | $200–$3,000 |
Coin Specifications
- Designer
- Christian Gobrecht
- Years
- 1838–1891
- Denomination
- 25¢
- Composition
- 90% silver, 10% copper
- Diameter
- 24.3 mm
- Weight
- 6.25 g
Quick Value
Where to Buy/Sell
Seated Liberty Quarter: History & Background
The Seated Liberty Quarter was struck for over 50 years, making it one of the longest-running US coin designs. The obverse features Liberty seated on a rock holding a pole topped with a Phrygian cap. Major design changes include the addition of drapery at Liberty's elbow in 1840, arrows at the date in 1853 and 1873 to indicate weight changes, and the motto IN GOD WE TRUST added to the reverse in 1866. Carson City Mint issues from 1870 to 1878 are particularly sought after.
How to Grade a Seated Liberty Quarter
Accurate grading is the single most important factor in determining a coin's value. A difference of just a few grade points can mean 10× or more in value. Examine the highest points of the design first — these are where wear appears earliest. For the finest grades, luster, strike quality, and surface preservation all matter. Professional grading by PCGS or NGC adds certainty and typically increases resale value. Read our complete grading guide →