fbpx

THE EARLY QUARTERS (1796-1998)

The Twenty Cent Piece

Image courtesy of Heritage Auctions, 1876-CC 20C, Size by Bonnie Mattie, CC BY 4.0

Minted during the mid to late 1870s, the Twenty Cent Piece caused a stir among the public. The reason behind this was the fact that it resembles the Quarter Dollar in term of size and design. This unusual coin was struck only for four years. The first two years, 1875-1876 were the years the coins were minted for the public while the only coins produced in the last two years were for the collectors.

John P. Jones was the father of the Twenty Cent Piece. He was the one who proposed the creation of the Twenty Cent Piece in 1874. The bill passed the Congress after Jones argued that the said coin will alleviate the nation’s shortage of coins used for small change. The other legislators agreed to the legislation mainly as a sign of support towards Jones. It was later made official when President Ulysses S. Grant signed the bill on the 3rd of March, 1835.

Henry Lindermann, the current Mint Director of that time, decided to give the Twenty Cent Piece a design on both the obverse and reverse similar to other coins made of silver. The patterns have already been prepared way before the bill was signed as Lindermann already anticipated it.

Pollock sent Linderman patterns for the Twenty Cent Piece and argued that what Lindermann wanted would be too similar to other coins. After some time bickering, Lindermann reigned with the decision and the design was finalized on April 12, 1875. Immediately after that, a revision was issued as the leaves at the right corner of the branch had to be more defined.

Design and Specification

Image courtesy of Heritage Auctions, 1876-CC 20C, Size by Bonnie Mattie, CC BY 4.0

The designer of the coin was William Barber. It is 22 millimeters in diameter, weighs 5 grams, has a smooth edge and is made up of 90% Silver and 10% Copper.

The obverse the coin features a full body portrait of Miss Liberty facing left, while she’s holding a shield on the one hand and a Phrygian cap on a pole with the other. She’s being surrounded by 13 stars – seven on the left and six on the left, respectively.  The date was inscribed just below Miss Liberty.

For the reverse, an Eagle facing right is seen grasping a single olive branch and a bunch arrows on its talons. The legends UNITED STATES OF AMERICA and *TWENTY CENT* are in the form of an above and below the eagle, respectively.

Minting of the Twenty Cent Piece

The Twenty Cent Piece were minted in Philadelphia, Carson City and San Francisco. In San Francisco, the Twenty Cent Piece coins were struck in bulk, reaching 1,155,000 but the production was cut short, and it only lasted for a year in the San Francisco Mint.  There were proof coins minted in 1875, 1876, 1877 and 1878 and were only struck in Philadelphia and San Francisco.

Because of the mass confusion between the Twenty Piece Cent and Quarters, the Twenty Cent Piece’s popularity quickly shut down. To abolish the Twenty Cent piece, legislation was made. It was not signed immediately, but since no one is paying attention to the coin, the US Mint decided to stop the production. Proof coins were only minted in its last two years – 1877 and 1878 for coin collectors.     

It is said that most 1876 Twenty Cents were bought by the Centennial Exposition. Linderman ordered the US Mints to melt the remaining Twenty Cents so they can use it for another denomination. The next day, May 2, 1878, the Congress officially abolished the Twenty Cent Piece. Those that were in circulation continued to be used in public, but by 1890s, only a few were seen.

Varieties and Mintages of the Twenty Piece Cent

Regular Strike

1875 – a total of 36,910 coins minted at the Philadelphia Mint

1875-CC – a total of 133,290 coins minted at the Carson City Mint

1875-S – a total of 1,155,000 coins minted at the San Francisco Mint

1876 – a total of 14,640 coins minted at the Philadelphia  Mint

1876-CC – a total of 10,000 coins minted at the Carson City Mint

Proofs

1875 – a total of 2,790 coins minted at the Philadelphia  Mint

1876 – a total of 1,260 coins minted at the Philadelphia  Mint

1877 – a total of 350 coins minted at the Philadelphia  Mint

1878 – a total of 600 coins minted at the Philadelphia  Mint

Special Strikes

1875-S – a total of 12 coins minted at the San Francisco Mint                                        

Collecting Twenty Cents Pieces

Twenty Cents Pieces are one of today’s favourite coins collected by numismatists. This is according to the 2018 Official Red Book. The reason behind is that the Mints melted most of the Twenty Cents – 1/3 of it.   

The price one has to pay for a Twenty Cent Piece will depend on the grade and condition of the coin. According to PCGS, the price range for 20C graded by PCGS is as follows

Regular Strikes

1875 – $95.00-$29,850

1875 CC – $100.00-$66,500.00

1875 S – $70.00-$67,500

1876 – $150.00-$75,000.00

1876 CC -$150,000.00-$750,000.00

Proofs

1875 – $1,3000.00-$41,000.00

1876 –  $1,100.00-$24,000.00

1877 – $3,800.00-$23,500.00

1878 – $3,400.00-$45,000.00

Special Strike

1875 S -$10,000.00-$100,000.00

References:

NGC Coin, PCGS Coin Facts, PCGS, Numista, Wikipedia

 


Draped Bust Eagles

US Mint (coin), National Numismatic Collection (photograph by Jaclyn Nash), NNC-US-1797-10C-Draped Bust (small eagle), Size by Bonnie Mattie, CC BY 4.0

When the United States Congress signed the Mint Act of 1792 in April 2, 1792, many great things happened. For one, dollars was officially named the standard currency of the United States. In order to produce the dollar currency and regulate the new coinage, the US mint was established.

Each coin was meticulously weighted – mainly because they were made or precious metals, namely Gold and Silver. Mint officials knew how the design, weight, metal composition and overall appearance of each coin could affect not just how the public views it, but the world as well.

One of the very first coins made under the Mint Act of 1792 as the Early Quarter Dollar. This is a new denomination that adopted the Draped Bust design for the head of the Coin which was minted from 1796-1807. Two designs were created thus two types of Draped Bust Quarters were born.

The Draped Bust, Small Eagles

US Mint (coin), National Numismatic Collection (photograph by Jaclyn Nash), NNC-US-1797-10C-Draped Bust (small eagle), Size by Bonnie Mattie, CC BY 4.0

The first type is the Draped Bust, Small Eagle. The Obverse of the coin featured the Draped Bust design. Miss Liberty is portrayed facing right, with her curly hair flowing and a ribbon on her head. A drapery covers the plunging neckline Miss Liberty is wearing. The legend LIBERTY can be seen on top of the portrait while the date 1796 is below it. 15 stars are arranged in either side of the obverse – 8 on the left, seven on the right.

As for the Reverse, An open wreath made tied in the bottom with a bow encloses a small Eagle perched on a cloud. The legend UNITED STATES OF AMERICA surrounds the wreath in a form of an arc. This reverse design was only minted for a year, in 1796 at the Philadelphia Mint. The total number of Draped Bust Small Eagles minted were 6,146.

The Draped Bust, Heraldic Eagle

Came 1804 and the US Mint decided it was time for the Quarter Dollar to make an appearance, but with a slightly new design which was minted from 1804-1807. A total of 554,899 Draped Bust, Heraldic Eagles were minted. The obverse still featured the Drape design but instead of 15 stars, it went down to 13 – with 7 on the left and 6 on the right, respectively.

As for the reverse. A Heraldic Eagle replaced the small Eagle and the wreath was removed altogether. The reverse has the Great Seal of the United where an Eagle had a shield on its chest while clutching a bunch of arrows and olive branches on its talons. A ribbon is seen on the Eagle’s beak with the legend E PLURIBUS UNUM. 13 stars are above the Eagle, with clouds forming an arc on top of the stars. The legends UNITED STATES OF AMERICA and the denomination 25 C. are around the eagle. This came to the Draped Bust, Heraldic Eagle.

All Draped Bust Quarter Dollars were designed by Robert Scot. It has a reeded edge, are 27.50 millimeters in diameter and weighs 6.74 grams. They were made up of 89.2% Silver and 10.8% Copper.

Mintages

Type 1 Draped Bust, Small Eagle

The first type of Draped Bust Quarters was minted only in 1796. No proofs were struck for this series.

Regular Strike

1796 Draped Bust, Small Eagle – a total of 6,146 coins minted in the Philadelphia Mint

Type 2 Draped Bust Heraldic Eagle

The second type of Draped Bust Eagle was minted from 1804 up until 1807. A total of 554,899 coins were minted during its four-years of production. No proofs were struck, but this series does have an overdate issue – the 1806/5.

Regular Strike

1804 Draped Bust Heraldic Eagle – a total of 6,738 coins minted in the Philadelphia Mint

1805 Draped Bust Heraldic Eagle – a total of 121,394 coins minted in the Philadelphia Mint

1806 Draped Bust Heraldic Eagle – a total of 206,124 coins minted in the Philadelphia Mint

1806/5 Draped Bust Heraldic Eagle

1807 Draped Bust Heraldic Eagle – a total of 220,643 coins minted in the Philadelphia Mint

Error Coins

The only error coin for the Draped Bust Quarters is the 1806 6/5 overdate. One can tell with one look that the number 6 in the date 1806 was punched over the 5. The price to pay if you wish to collect this beautiful error coin ranges from a few hundred dollars to six figures.

Collecting Draped Bust Eagles

The 1796 Draped Bust Small Eagle is considered as a key issue, no matter what grade it may be. There are two varieties known for the 1796 Quarter – one with the number on the date set high and the other a lower 6. Coin collectors would for signs of wear on Miss Liberty’s hair around the forehead, shoulder and bustline for the obverse, and the breast and top portion of the Eagle’s wings in the reverse.

Being a key issue as well as a landmark of US coins, many have attempted to counterfeit the 1796 Quarter. The said coins were copies of Lower 6 1796 Quarters – with nicks found on above the ER and the last A of AMERICA as well as the 12th star. They even appeared in Boston, during a The 1982 A.N.A. Convention. When collecting 1796 Quarters, one only needs one for a Type set collection.

As for the Draped Bust Heraldic Eagle, collectors will need to collect five coins to complete the series – one from 1804, 1805, 1806, 1087 and the 1806/5 overdate. Signs of wear tear should be inspected on Miss Liberty’s hair above the forehead, her shoulders and bust for the obverse, and the Eagle’s head and top of its wings for the reverse.

One can buy PCGS-graded 1796 Draped Bust Small Eagles around $4,750.00 to $1,000.000. For Draped Bust Heraldic Eagles, you can check below.

1804 – $1,000.00 – $225,000.00

1805 – $225.00 – $100,000.00

1806 – $225.00 – $100,000.00

1806/5 – $250.00 – $235,000.00

1807 – $ 225.00 – $750,000.00

Collecting Draped Bust Quarters is a joy as you can complete a series without much difficulty, especially if you’re not that conservative with the grades of the coin. Having a collection such as these is like holding a piece of history. After all, one of the first quarters issued by the US Mint will be in your possession.

References:

PCGS, PCGS CoinFacts, NGC, USA Coin Book


The Capped Bust Quarters

Eight years after the US Mint stopped the production of the infamous quarters in 1807, a new quarter coin emerged in 1815. The designer of the Capped Bust Quarters was John Reich, a German Engraver. He was one of those who opted to leave his country and went to pursue a carrier as an engraver in the US. He applied at the US Mint in Philadelphia and was accepted as an engraver in the year 1807.

Thanks to Reich, he created coin designs that numismatics claim “he brought Europe to the US coinage.” When tasked to design the new quarter coin, he based the appearance of Miss Liberty to that of a plump European woman.

The Capped Bust Quarter was called as such since Miss Liberty is seen wearing a mob cap with the legend LIBERTY on the band while facing left. She was draped in a cloth secured by a brooch. Seven stars are on her right while six are on the left, having 13 stars in total while the date the coin was minted sits below Miss Liberty’s portrait.

For the reverse, an Eagle is seen perched on a branch, with its head facing left. It has a shield on its chest bearing the Great Seal of the US. The Eagle is clutching three arrows and a ribbon containing the words E PLURIBUS UNUM on it. The legends UNITED STATES OF AMERICA and the denomination 25 C is on top and below the Eagle. All coins have a reeded edge.

The Two Types of the Capped Bust Quarters and Mintages

Type 1 Capped Bust Quarter, Large Size

All were minted in the Philadelphia Mint from 1812-1828, but not yearly. The design has Reich’s original design which was later modified in the second type. The Type 1 Capped Bust Quarter weighs 6.74 grams, is 27.50 millimetres in diameter and is made up of 89.2% Silver and 10.8% Copper.

Regular Strike

1815 – a total of 89,235 pieces of coins were minted

1818 – a total of 361,174 pieces of coins were minted

1818/5– a total of 361,174 pieces of coins were minted

1819 – a total of 144,000 pieces of coins were minted

1819 Small 9 – a total of 144,000 pieces of coins were minted

1819 Large 9– a total of 144,000 pieces of coins were minted

1820 – a total of 127,444 pieces of coins were minted

1820 Small 0 – a total of 127,444 pieces of coins were minted

1820 Large 0  – a total of 127,444 pieces of coins were minted

1820 Medium 0  – a total of 127,444 pieces of coins were minted

1821 – a total of 216,851 pieces of coins were minted

1822 – a total of 64,080 pieces of coins were minted

1822 25/50C – a total of 64,080 pieces of coins were minted

1823 – a total of 64,080 pieces of coins were minted

1823/2 – a total of 17,800 pieces were minted

1824 – a total of 24,000 pieces of coins were minted

1824/2 – a total of  pieces of coins were minted

1825/4/2 – a total of 144,000 pieces of coins were minted

1828 – a total of 102,000 pieces of coins were minted

1828 25/50C – a total of 102,000 pieces of coins were minted

Proofs

1820 – a total of 10 pieces of coins were minted

1821 – a total of 15 pieces of coins were minted

1822 – a total of 8 pieces of coins were minted

1822 25/50C – a total of 6 pieces of coins were minted

1823/2 – a total of 1 piece of coins were minted

1824/2 – a total of 1 piece of coins were minted

1827/3 Original – a total of 12 pieces of coins were minted

1827/3 Restrike – a total of 20 pieces of coins were minted

1828 – a total of 12 pieces of coins were minted

Type 2 Capped Bust Quarter, Small Size

After 2 years, The US Mint once again minted quarters in a smaller size from 1831-1838. William Kneass was also appointed by Mint Director Samuel Moore to make modifications on the original design. The scroll that contained the motto E PLURIBUS UNUM was removed. Overall, the coin was given a more cameo like appearance, sharpening the devices that in turned, gave it better striking quality. It weighs 6.74 grams, is 24.30 millimeters in diameter and is made up of 89.2% Silver and 10.8% Copper.

Regular Strike

1831 Small Letters – a total of 398,000 pieces of coins were minted

1831 Large Letters – a total of 398,000 pieces of coins were minted

1832 – a total of 320,000 pieces of coins were minted

1833 – a total of 156,000 pieces of coins were minted

1834 – a total of 286,000 pieces of coins were minted

1835 – a total of 1,952,000 pieces of coins were minted

1836 – a total of 472,000 pieces of coins were minted

1837 – a total of 252,400 pieces of coins were minted

1838 Capped Bust – a total of 366,000 pieces of coins were minted

Proofs

1831 Large Letters – a total of 20 pieces of coins were minted

1833 – a total of 5 pieces of coins were minted

1834 – a total of 10 pieces of coins were minted

1835 – a total of 8 pieces of coins were minted

1836 – a total of 5 pieces of coins were minted

1837 – a total of 5 pieces of coins were minted

1838 Capped Bust – a total of 3 pieces of coins were minted

Collected Capped Bust Quarters

One can find signs of wear on Type 1 Capped Bust Quarter Larger Size on Miss Liberty’s hair above the forehead, over her ear, The head of the Eagle and the tail feathers just below the shield. As for the second type, signs of wear can be seen on the hair of Miss Liberty above her eye, the top of her cap, stars, the Eagle’s talons and the arrowheads.

The Price Range of the Capped Bust Quarters will depend on the grade or condition of the coin. Most Based on PCGS’s-graded coins, most Type 1 Capped Bust Quarters can be bought between $42.00-$250,000.00. For Type 2, the price range is between $30.00-$125,000.00.

Collecting Capped Bust Quarters is an enjoyable one as there are many error coins for this. The significant rarities are the 1823/2 overdate and the 1827. The most sought after Capped Bust Quarters are the 1822 25/50C and 1823/2. One is able to acquire a complete set of both types without much difficulty as there are still enough coins available.

References:

NGC Coin, PCGS, PCGS Coin Facts, Coin Mintages, USA CoinBook


The Seated Liberty Quarter

Photo taken by user bobby131313 and may be used freely with following credit. Image courtesy of CCF Numismatics, Seated Liberty Quarter with Arrows and Rays, Size by Bonnie Mattie, CC BY-SA 3.0

After the Capped Bust Quarter, a new design emerged made by Christian Gobrecht. The new quarter came to be as the Seated Liberty Dollars which was minted from 1838-1891.

The main design features Miss Liberty facing left, sitting on a rock while wearing a long drapery gown. On her left hand, she is seen holding a pole with a liberty cap on the top while her right hands hold a shield which bears the Great Seal of the US and bearing the legend LIBERTY. An arc of stars is on surrounds her with seven on the left and six on the right respectively. The date is then situated below the full-bodied portrait.

For the reverse, the design was somewhat similar to previous quarters. An Eagle with its wings lightly faces left, and has the Great Seal of the US on its chest. The Eagle is clutching an olive branch and three arrows on its talons. The legends UNITED STATES OF AMERICA is on top of the Eagle while the denomination QUAR. DOL. is below it. The coins were minted in three US Mints – Philadelphia (no mint mark), New Orleans (O), San Francisco (S) and Carson City (C), each bearing their respective mint marks.

The new quarters have six types which give coin collectors the opportunity to collect a wide variety of type sets. Each type has the design modified. There are also proof coins to collect in each type, making collecting this type of quarters an exciting experience.

The Five Types of the Liberty Seated Quarters and Mintages

1. Type 1 No Drapery

The first type of Liberty Seated Quarters depicts Miss Liberty with the original design. The coins are made up of 90% Silver and 10% Copper. It weighs 6.74 grams, is 24.30 millimeters and have a reeded edge. These were minted from 1838-1840 at the Philadelphia and New Orleans Mint.

Regular Strike

1838 Seated, No Drapery – a total of 466,000 pieces were minted in Philadelphia

1839 No Drapery – a total of 491,146 pieces were minted in Philadelphia

1840-O No Drapery – a total of 382,200 pieces were minted in New Orleans

 

Proofs

1838 Seated, No Drapery – a total of 3 pieces were minted in Philadelphia

1839 No Drapery – a total of 2 pieces were minted in Philadelphia

2. Type 2 No Motto

The second type is called No Motto Liberty Seated Dollar because of the absence of the motto E PLURIBUS UNUM. Although the first four types also do not contain the motto, this was considered a different subtype. These were minted from 1840-1865 at the Philadelphia, New Orleans and San Francisco Mint.

Regular Strike

1840 Drapery – a total of 188,127 pieces were minted in Philadelphia

1840-O Drapery – a total of 43,000 pieces were minted in New Orleans

1841 – a total of 120,000 pieces were minted in Philadelphia

1841-O – a total of 452,000 pieces were minted in New Orleans

1842 – a total of 88,000 pieces were minted in Philadelphia

1842-O Large Date – a total of 769,000 pieces were minted in New Orleans

1842-O Small Date – a total of 769,000 pieces were minted in New Orleans

1843 – a total of 645,600 pieces were minted in Philadelphia

1843-O – a total of 968,000 pieces were minted in New Orleans

1844 – a total of 421,200 pieces were minted in Philadelphia

1844-O – a total of 740,000 pieces were minted in New Orleans

1845 – a total of 922,000 pieces were minted in Philadelphia

1846 – a total of 510,000 pieces were minted in Philadelphia

1847 – a total of 734,000 pieces were minted in Philadelphia

1847-O – a total of 368,000 pieces were minted in New Orleans

1848 – a total of 146,000 pieces were minted in Philadelphia

1849 – a total of 340,000 pieces were minted in Philadelphia

1849-O – a total of 16,000 pieces were minted in New Orleans

1850 – a total of 190,800 pieces were minted in Philadelphia

1850-O – a total of 396,000 pieces were minted in New Orleans

1851 – a total of 160,000 pieces were minted in Philadelphia

1851-O – a total of 88,000 pieces were minted in New Orleans

1852 – a total of 177,060 pieces were minted in Philadelphia

1852-O – a total of 96,000 pieces were minted in New Orleans

1853 No Arrows – a total of 44,200 pieces were minted in Philadelphia

1856 – a total of 7,264,000 pieces were minted in Philadelphia

1856-O – a total of 968,000 (9) pieces were minted in New Orleans

1856-S – a total of 286,000 pieces were minted in San Francisco

1857 – a total of 9,644,000 pieces were minted in Philadelphia

1857-O – a total of  pieces were minted in New Orleans

1857-S – a total of 82,000 pieces were minted in San Francisco

1858 – a total of 7,368,000 pieces were minted in Philadelphia

1858-O – a total of 520,000 pieces were minted in New Orleans

1858-S – a total of 121,000 pieces were minted in San Francisco

1859 – a total of 1,343,200 pieces were minted in Philadelphia

1859-O – a total of 260,000 pieces were minted in New Orleans

1859-S – a total of 80,000 pieces were minted in San Francisco

1860 – a total of 804,400 pieces were minted in Philadelphia

1860-O – a total of 388,000 pieces were minted in New Orleans

1860-S – a total of 56,000 pieces were minted in San Francisco

1861 – a total of 4,853,600 pieces were minted in Philadelphia

1861-S – a total of 96,000 pieces were minted in San Francisco

1862 – a total of 932,000 pieces were minted in Philadelphia

1862-S – a total of 67,000 pieces were minted in San Francisco

1863 – a total of 191,600 pieces were minted in Philadelphia

1864 – a total of 93,600 pieces were minted in Philadelphia

1864-S – a total of 20,000 pieces were minted in San Francisco

1865 – a total of 58,800 pieces were minted in Philadelphia

1865-S – a total of 41,000 pieces were minted in San Francisco

Proofs

1840 Drapery – a total of 5 pieces were minted in Philadelphia

1841 – a total of 4 pieces were minted in Philadelphia

1842 Small Date – a total of 6 pieces were minted in Philadelphia

1843 – a total of 10 pieces were minted in Philadelphia

1844 – a total of 5 pieces were minted in Philadelphia

1845 – a total of 6 pieces were minted in Philadelphia

1846 – a total of 12 pieces were minted in Philadelphia

1847 – a total of 10 pieces were minted in Philadelphia

1848 – a total of 10 pieces were minted in Philadelphia

1849 – a total of 8 pieces were minted in Philadelphia

1850 – a total of 3 pieces were minted in Philadelphia

1852 – a total of 2 pieces were minted in Philadelphia

1856 – a total of 30 pieces were minted in Philadelphia

1857 – a total of 40 pieces were minted in Philadelphia

1858 – a total of 50 pieces were minted in Philadelphia

1859 – a total of 800 pieces were minted in Philadelphia

1860 – a total of 1000 pieces were minted in Philadelphia

1861 – a total of 1000 pieces were minted in Philadelphia

1862 – a total of 550 pieces were minted in Philadelphia

1863 – a total of 460 pieces were minted in Philadelphia

1864 – a total of 470 pieces were minted in Philadelphia

1865 – a total of 500 pieces were minted in Philadelphia

3. Type 3 Arrows and Rays

For the third type, the Liberty Seated quarters had some weight reduced and now weighs 6.30 grams. This type was called rays and arrow because of the arrows added on the obverse, on each side of the date and the rays that were placed all around the Eagle on the reverse. It only lasted for a year, minted in 1853 at the Philadelphia and New Orleans Mint.

Regular Strike

1853 Arrows and Rays – a total of 15,210,020 pieces were minted in Philadelphia

1853/4 Arrows and Rays – a total of 15,210,020 pieces were minted in Philadelphia

1853-O Arrows and Rays – a total of  pieces were minted in New Orleans

Proofs

1853 Arrows and Rays – a total of 5 pieces were minted in Philadelphia

4. Type 4 No Motto, Arrows, and Date

The third type was modified wherein the rays on the reverse were removed. The coins were minted for two years, from 1854-1855 at the Philadelphia, San Francisco, and Carson City Mint.

Regular Strike

1854 Arrows – a total of 12,380,000 pieces were minted in Philadelphia

1854-O Arrows – a total of 1,484,000 pieces were minted in New Orleans

1854-O Huge O – a total of 1,484,000 pieces were minted in New Orleans

1855 Arrows – a total of 2,857,000 pieces were minted in Philadelphia

1855-O Arrows – a total of 176,000 pieces were minted in New Orleans

1855-S Arrows – a total of 396,400 pieces were minted in San Francisco

Proofs

1854 Arrows – a total of 10 pieces were minted in Philadelphia

1855 Arrows – a total of 20 pieces were minted in Philadelphia

Special Strikes

1855-S Arrows – a total of 2 pieces were minted in San Francisco

5. Type 5 With Motto

Finally, by 1866, the motto IN GOD WE TRUST was included in the US coins, including the quarter. The weight was lessened to 6.20 grams and the arrows on the date were removed. These coins were minted up until 1891 in Philadelphia, New Orleans and San Francisco Mints.

Regular Strike

1866 Motto – a total of 16,800 pieces were minted in Philadelphia

1866-S – a total of 28,000 pieces were minted in San Francisco

1867 – a total of 20,000 pieces were minted in Philadelphia

1867-S – a total of 48,000 pieces were minted in San Francisco

1868 – a total of 29,400 pieces were minted in Philadelphia

1868-S – a total of 96,000 pieces were minted in San Francisco

1869 – a total of 16,000 pieces were minted in Philadelphia

1869-S – a total of 76,000 pieces were minted in San Francisco

1870 – a total of 86,400 pieces were minted in Philadelphia

1870-CC – a total of 8,340 pieces were minted in Carson City

1871 – a total of 118,200 pieces were minted in Philadelphia

1871-CC – a total of 10,890 pieces were minted in Carson City

1871-S – a total of 30,900 pieces were minted in San Francisco

1872 – a total of 182,000 pieces were minted in Philadelphia

1872-CC – a total of 22,850 pieces were minted in Carson City

1872-S – a total of 83,000 pieces were minted in San Francisco

1873 No Arrows, Closed 3 – a total of 40,000 pieces were minted in Philadelphia

1873 No Arrows, Open 3 – a total of 172,000 pieces were minted in Philadelphia

1873-CC No Arrows – a total of 4,000 pieces were minted in Carson City

1875 – a total of 4,292,800 pieces were minted in Philadelphia

1875-CC – a total of 140,000 pieces were minted in Carson City

1875-S – a total of 680,000 pieces were minted in San Francisco

1876 – a total of 17,816,000 pieces were minted in Philadelphia

1876-CC – a total of 4,944,000 pieces were minted in Carson City

1876-S – a total of 8,596,000 pieces were minted in San Francisco

1877 – a total of 10,911,200 pieces were minted in Philadelphia

1877-CC – a total of 4,192,000 pieces were minted Carson City

1877-S – a total of 8,996,000 pieces were minted in San Francisco

1877-S/S S/Horizontal S – a total of 8,996,000 pieces were minted in San Francisco

1878 – a total of 2,260,000 pieces were minted in Philadelphia

1878-CC – a total of 996,000 pieces were minted in Carson City

1878-S – a total of 140,000 pieces were minted in San Francisco

1879 – a total of 13,600 pieces were minted in Philadelphia

1880 – a total of 13,600 pieces were minted in Philadelphia

1881 – a total of 12,000 pieces were minted in Philadelphia

1882 – a total of 15,200 pieces were minted in Philadelphia

1883 – a total of 14,400 pieces were minted in Philadelphia

1884 – a total of 8,000 pieces were minted in Philadelphia

1885 – a total of 13,600 pieces were minted in Philadelphia

1886 – a total of 5,000 pieces were minted in Philadelphia

1887 – a total of 10,000 pieces were minted in Philadelphia

1888 – a total of 10,000 pieces were minted in Philadelphia

1888-S – a total of 1,216,000 pieces were minted in San Francisco

1889 – a total of 12,000 pieces were minted in Philadelphia

1890 – a total of 80,000 pieces were minted in Philadelphia

1891 – a total of 3,920,600 pieces were minted in Philadelphia

1891-O – a total of 68,000 pieces were minted in New Orleans

1891-S – a total of 2,216,000 pieces were minted in San Francisco

Proofs

1866 Motto – a total of 725 pieces were minted in Philadelphia

1867 – a total of 625 pieces were minted in Philadelphia

1868 – a total of 600 pieces were minted in Philadelphia

1869 – a total of 600 pieces were minted in Philadelphia

1870 – a total of 1,000 pieces were minted in Philadelphia

1871 – a total of 960 pieces were minted in Philadelphia

1872 – a total of 950 pieces were minted in Philadelphia

1873 No Arrows – a total of 600 pieces were minted in Philadelphia

1875 – a total of 700 pieces were minted in Philadelphia

1876 – a total of 1,150 pieces were minted in Philadelphia

1877 – a total of 510 pieces were minted in Philadelphia

1878 – a total of 800 pieces were minted in Philadelphia

1879 – a total of 800 pieces were minted in Philadelphia

1880 – a total of 1,355 pieces were minted in Philadelphia

1881 – a total of 975 pieces were minted in Philadelphia

1882 – a total of 1,100 pieces were minted in Philadelphia

1883 – a total of 1,039 pieces were minted in Philadelphia

1884 – a total of 875 pieces were minted in Philadelphia

1885 – a total of 930 pieces were minted in Philadelphia

1886 – a total of 886 pieces were minted in Philadelphia

1887 – a total of 710 pieces were minted in Philadelphia

1888 – a total of 800 pieces were minted in Philadelphia

1889 – a total of 711 pieces were minted in Philadelphia

1890 – a total of 590 pieces were minted in Philadelphia

1891 – a total of 600 pieces were minted in Philadelphia

6. Type 6 With Motto, Arrows and Date

The last type features the arrows on the date again along with the motto E PLURIBUS UNUM. The weight went back to 6.30 and the coins were minted from 1873-1874 at the Philadelphia, San Francisco and Carson City Mint.

Regular Strike

1873 Arrows – a total of 1,271,160 pieces were minted in Philadelphia

1873-CC Arrows – a total of 12,462 Carson City

1873-S Arrows – a total of 156,000 San Francisco

1874 Arrows – a total of 471,200 pieces were minted in Philadelphia

1874-S Arrows – a total of 392,000 pieces were minted in San Francisco

Proofs

1873 Arrows – a total of 540 pieces were minted in Philadelphia

1874 Arrows – a total of 850 pieces were minted in Philadelphia

Collecting The Liberty Seated Quarter

Collectors can collect the Liberty Seated Quarter in many ways than one, thanks to its many types, proofs and errors. One won’t have a hard time collecting as circulated coins are readily available in Grades Good to Extremely Fine.

When grading the Liberty Seated Quarters, the points to check for wear are Miss Liberty’s hair, breast and knees for the obverse, and the Eagle’s neck, claws and Top of the wings. Some of the key dates that most-sought after by collectors are the 1870-CC, 1871-CC, 1872-S and the 1873-CC w/Arrows. These four are consistent when it comes to increase in value.

Most coins that were minted in Carson City are considered hard to obtain since these are a lot more difficult to locate. One can buy Seated Liberty Quarters from $15.00 up to $2000,000.00 depending on the grade of the coin. For the complete price range set by PCGS-graded coins, one can check the link below.

https://www.pcgs.com/prices/priceguidedetail.aspx?c=109&title=liberty+seated+quarter

References

PCGS, PCGS CointFacts, NGC Coin, US Coins Values Advisor and US Rare Coins


The Barber Quarters

In the year 1892, the quarter was given a makeover. James P. Kimball, US Mint Director in 1887 wanted to change the designs of the coin, saying they were already out of date. Because of this, Senator Justin Morill suggested a bill that would redesign the US coins every after 25 years without the need to obtain the Congress’ approval. The bill was approved and was passed in 1890.

For the new designs, a contest was held even if Charles Barber was not keen about this. In the end, the results were disastrous and Barber got to design the new coins himself. Under the new Mint Director’s support, Edward Leech, he went to work on the new designs.

photographer from MTB, 1893 Barber quarter, Size by Bonnie Mattie, CC BY-SA 4.0

On the obverse of the coin, Miss Liberty adopted the style similar to that of the Morgan Dollar, but Miss Liberty’s portrait is now facing right. She is seen wearing a Phrygian cap that has a laurel wreath. Her hair is tied at the back using a ribbon. 13 stars litter her side, with 6 on the left and 7 on the right, respectively. The motto IN GOD WE TRUST and the date below the portrait.

photographer from Kagin’s (the auction house), Barber quarter reverse, Size by Bonnie Mattie, CC BY-SA 4.0

As for the reverse, Barber adapted the Great Seal of the US. A heraldic Eagle is facing left while it is holding an Olive branch and arrows on its talons. The great seal of the US in the Eagle’s chest and a ribbon is on its mouth with the legend El Pluribus written on it. 13 stars are above the above the Eagle’s head, while the legend UNITED STATES OF AMERICA and the denomination QUARTER DOLLAR surrounds the Eagle.

The quarter was named the Barber Quarters after its designer. The coins are made up of 90% SIlver and 10% Copper. Each weighs 6.30 grams, is 24.30 millimeters and has a reeded edge. These were minted from 1892-1915 at the Philadelphia, New Orleans (O), San Francisco (S) and Denver Mint (D), each bearing their respective mint marks.

Mintages and Mint Marks

Regular Strike

1892 – a total of 8,236,000  pieces were minted at the Philadelphia Mint

1892-O – a total of 2,640,000 pieces were minted at the New Orleans

1892-S – a total of 964,079 pieces were minted at the San Francisco Mint

1893 – a total of 5,444,023 pieces were minted at the Philadelphia Mint

1893-O – a total of 3,396,000  pieces were minted at the New Orleans

1893-S – a total of 1,454,535 pieces were minted at the San Francisco Mint

1894 – a total of  3,432,000 pieces were minted at the Philadelphia Mint

1894-O – a total of 2,852,000  pieces were minted at the New Orleans

1894-S – a total of  2,648,821 pieces were minted at the San Francisco Mint

1895 – a total of  4,440,000 pieces were minted at the Philadelphia Mint

1895-O – a total of  2,816,000 pieces were minted at the New Orleans

1895-S – a total of  1,764,681 pieces were minted at the San Francisco Mint

1896 – a total of  3,874,000 pieces were minted at the Philadelphia Mint

1896-O – a total of  1,484,000 pieces were minted at the New Orleans

1896-S – a total of  188,039 pieces were minted at the San Francisco Mint

1897 – a total of  8,140,000 pieces were minted at the Philadelphia Mint

1897-O – a total of  1,414,800 pieces were minted at the New Orleans

1897-S – a total of  542,229 pieces were minted at the San Francisco Mint

1898 – a total of  11,100,000 pieces were minted at the Philadelphia Mint

1898-O – a total of  1,868,000 pieces were minted at the New Orleans

1898-S – a total of  1,020,592 pieces were minted at the San Francisco Mint

1899 – a total of  12,624,000 pieces were minted at the Philadelphia Mint

1899-O – a total of  2,644,000 pieces were minted at the New Orleans

1899-S – a total of  708,000 pieces were minted at the San Francisco Mint

1900 – a total of  10,016,000 pieces were minted at the Philadelphia Mint

1900-O – a total of  3,416,000 pieces were minted at the New Orleans

1900-S – a total of  1,858,585 pieces were minted at the San Francisco Mint

1901 – a total of  8,892,000 pieces were minted at the Philadelphia Mint

1901-O – a total of  1,612,000 pieces were minted at the New Orleans

1901-S – a total of  72,664 pieces were minted at the San Francisco Mint

1902 – a total of  12,196,967 pieces were minted at the Philadelphia Mint

1902-O – a total of  4,748,000 pieces were minted at the New Orleans

1902-S – a total of  1,524,612 pieces were minted at the San Francisco Mint

1903 – a total of  9,669,309 pieces were minted at the Philadelphia Mint

1903-O – a total of  3,500,000 pieces were minted at the New Orleans

1903-S – a total of  1,036,000 pieces were minted at the San Francisco Mint

1904 – a total of  9,588,143 pieces were minted at the Philadelphia Mint

1904-O – a total of  2,456,000 pieces were minted at the

1905 – a total of  4,967,523 pieces were minted at the Philadelphia Mint

1905-O – a total of  1,230,000 pieces were minted at the New Orleans

1905-S – a total of  1,884,000 pieces were minted at the San Francisco Mint

1906 – a total of  3,655,760 pieces were minted at the Philadelphia Mint

1906-D – a total of  3,280,000 pieces were minted at the Denver Mint

1906-O – a total of  2,056,000 pieces were minted at the New Orleans

1907 – a total of  7,192,000 pieces were minted at the Philadelphia Mint

1907-D – a total of  2,484,000 pieces were minted at the Denver Mint

1907-O – a total of  4,560,000 pieces were minted at the New Orleans

1907-S – a total of  1,360,000 pieces were minted at the San Francisco Mint

1908 – a total of  4,232,000 pieces were minted at the Philadelphia Mint

1908-D – a total of  5,788,000 pieces were minted at the Denver Mint

1908-O – a total of  6,244,000 pieces were minted at the New Orleans

1908-S – a total of  784,000 pieces were minted at the San Francisco Mint

1909 – a total of  9,268,000 pieces were minted at the Philadelphia Mint

1909-D – a total of  5,114,000 pieces were minted at the Denver Mint

1909-O – a total of  712,000 pieces were minted at the New Orleans

1909-S – a total of  1,348,000 pieces were minted at the San Francisco Mint

1910 – a total of  2,244,000 pieces were minted at the Philadelphia Mint

1910-D – a total of  1,500,000 pieces were minted at the Denver Mint

1911 – a total of  3,720,000 pieces were minted at the Philadelphia Mint

1911-D – a total of  933,600 pieces were minted at the Denver Mint

1911-S – a total of  988,000 pieces were minted at the San Francisco Mint

1912 – a total of  4,400,000 pieces were minted at the Philadelphia Mint

1912-S – a total of  708,000 pieces were minted at the San Francisco Mint

1913 – a total of  484,000 pieces were minted at the Philadelphia Mint

1913-D – a total of  1,450,800 pieces were minted at the Denver Mint

1913-S – a total of  40,000 pieces were minted at the San Francisco Mint

1914 – a total of  6,244,230 pieces were minted at the Philadelphia Mint

1914-D – a total of  3,046,000 pieces were minted at the Denver Mint

1914-S – a total of  264,000 pieces were minted at the San Francisco Mint

1915 – a total of  3,480,000 pieces were minted at the Philadelphia Mint

1915-D – a total of  3,694,000 pieces were minted at the Denver Mint

1915-S – a total of  704,000 pieces were minted at the San Francisco Mint

1916 Barber – a total of  1,788,000 pieces were minted at the Philadelphia Mint

1916-D – a total of  6,540,800 pieces were minted at the Denver Mint

Proofs

1892 – a total of  1,245 pieces were minted at the Philadelphia Mint

1893 – a total of  792 pieces were minted at the Philadelphia Mint

1894 – a total of  972 pieces were minted at the Philadelphia Mint

1895 – a total of  880 pieces were minted at the Philadelphia Mint

1896 – a total of  762 pieces were minted at the Philadelphia Mint

1897 – a total of  731 pieces were minted at the Philadelphia Mint

1898 – a total of  735 pieces were minted at the Philadelphia Mint

1899 – a total of  846 pieces were minted at the Philadelphia Mint

1900 – a total of  912 pieces were minted at the Philadelphia Mint

1901 – a total of  813 pieces were minted at the Philadelphia Mint

1902 – a total of  777 pieces were minted at the Philadelphia Mint

1903 – a total of  755 pieces were minted at the Philadelphia Mint

1904 – a total of  670 pieces were minted at the Philadelphia Mint

1905 – a total of  727 pieces were minted at the Philadelphia Mint

1906 – a total of  675 pieces were minted at the Philadelphia Mint

1907 – a total of  575 pieces were minted at the Philadelphia Mint

1908 – a total of  545 pieces were minted at the Philadelphia Mint

1909 – a total of  650 pieces were minted at the Philadelphia Mint

1910 – a total of  551 pieces were minted at the Philadelphia Mint

1911 – a total of  543 pieces were minted at the Philadelphia Mint

1912 – a total of  700 pieces were minted at the Philadelphia Mint

1913 – a total of  613 pieces were minted at the Philadelphia Mint

1914 – a total of  380 pieces were minted at the Philadelphia Mint

1915 – a total of  450 pieces were minted at the Philadelphia Mint

Collecting Barber Quarters

When collecting Barber Quarters, one should check for signs of wear on Miss Liberty’s hair above the eyes, forehead, cheeks, and puffs of her cap and on the reverse, the Eagle’s head, the tip of its wings and tails. Typeset collectors will have a great time collecting Barber Quarters as these coins can easily be found in Good to Fine conditions.

Some of the most sought-after Barber Quarters are the 1901-S, 1896-S and 1913-S that are rare and pricey in any grade or condition. Prices will depend on the rarity and condition of the coins, but as per PCGS-graded coins, $11.00-$120,000.00. For a guide, you may check the link below.

https://www.pcgs.com/prices/priceguidedetail.aspx?c=716&title=barber+quarter&MS=4

References

PCGS, PCGS CoinFacts, NGC Coin, USA CoinBook


The Standing Liberty Quarters

United States Mint; Hermon Atkins MacNeil, Standing Liberty Quarter, Size by Bonnie Mattie, CC BY-SA 4.0

After the coins designed by Barber stood the test of time, the public is very much ready for a new design. And so, a competition was held to determine the new draft of the US coins. In the end, Hermon Atkins MacNeil won the contest. He was a prominent sculptor famous for his works which included public monuments and buildings.

For the obverse, the new quarter feature Miss Liberty standing with her head facing right. She was holding a shield on her left arm in the posture that portrays protection. On her right hand, a drapery is drawn from the shield while holding a single olive branch. Though this portrait sends a mixed signal, it portrays that the US is ready for almost anything, be it peace or war. The legend LIBERTY is on the top, while the motto IN GOD WE TRUST runs in the middle of the coin from left to right. 13 stars are on Miss Liberty’s side, with seven on the left and six on the right respectively. The mintage date rests on the bottom of the obverse.

For the reverse, an American Eagle is on full flight facing right, having five stars each on the left and right. Another set of three stars rests below the Eagle while the denomination QUARTER DOLLAR is on the lowest part of the coin. The legends UNITED STATES OF AMERICA and E PLURIBUS UNUM are placed on top of the Eagle.

Because of MacNeil’s depiction of Miss Liberty, the new quarter came to be known as the Standing Liberty Quarter. These were minted from 1916-1930 at the US Mints located at the Philadelphia, San Francisco and Denver, although no quarters were minted in 1922.

Each coin bears the mint mark of the respective mint that produced them. Coins that were minted in Philadelphia bears no mint mark, while quarters minted at the San Francisco and Denver Mint each bears the mint marks S and D respectively.

One can find the mint mark on the left side of the date in the obverse, while the designer’s initial (M) is to the right. Each coin weighs 6.30 grams, is 24.30 millimeters in diameter, is made up of 90% Silver and 10% Copper, and has a reeded edge.

There are two types of the Standing Liberty Quarters, but the second type is considered to have two subtypes as there have been adjustments made for the second type. Many Standing Liberty Quarters have Full Head examples that bring considerable amount due to its considerable premiums.

The Two Types of the Standing Liberty Quarters and Mintages

1. Type 1 No Stars Below The Eagle Standing Liberty Quarters

The first type was only minted from 1916-1917. The original design had no three stars underneath the Eagle on the reverse. Despite its short mintage years, the first type was minted in the three US Mints – Philadelphia, Denver and San Francisco.

Regular Strike

1916 Standing Liberty – a total of 52,000 pieces were produced in the Philadelphia Mint

1917 Type 1 – a total of 8,740,000 pieces were produced in the Philadelphia Mint

1917-D Type 1 – a total of 1,509,200 pieces were produced in the Denver Mint

1917-S Type 1 – a total of 1,952,000 pieces were produced in the San Francisco Mint

2. Type 2A Stars Below the Eagle (Pedestal Date)

The first of the Type 2 Standing Liberty Quarter has Miss Liberty covered with a chain mail, and the Eagle positioned more on the center of the coin. Also, three stars were placed beneath the Eagle. The first type of the Type 2 Standing Liberty Quarters were minted from 1917-1924 at the Philadelphia, Denver and San Francisco Mint. No proofs were produced.

Regular Strike

1917 Type 2 – a total of 13,880,000 pieces were produced in the Philadelphia

1917-D Type 2 – a total of 6,224,400 pieces were produced in the Denver Mint

1917-S Type 2 – a total of 5,552,000 pieces were produced in the San Francisco Mint

1918 – a total of 14,240,000 pieces were produced in the Philadelphia

1918-D – a total of 7,380,000 pieces were produced in the Denver Mint

1918-S – a total of 11,072,000 pieces were produced in the San Francisco Mint

1918/7-S – a total of 11,072,000 pieces were produced in the San Francisco Mint

1919 – a total of 11,324,000 pieces were produced in the Philadelphia

1919-D – a total of 1,944,000 pieces were produced in the Denver Mint

1919-S – a total of 1,836,000 pieces were produced in the San Francisco Mint

1920 – a total of 27,860,000 pieces were produced in the Philadelphia

1920-D – a total of 3,586,400 pieces were produced in the Denver Mint

1920-S – a total of 6,380,000 pieces were produced in the San Francisco Mint

1921 – a total of 1,916,000 pieces were produced in the Philadelphia

1923 – a total of 9,716,000 pieces were produced in the Philadelphia

1923-S – a total of 1,360,000 pieces were produced in the San Francisco Mint

1924 – a total of 10,920,000 pieces were produced in the Philadelphia

1924-D – a total of 3,112,000 pieces were produced in the Denver Mint

1924-S – a total of 2,860,000 pieces were produced in the San Francisco Mint

3. Type 2B Stars Below Eagle (Recessed Date)

The second subtype of Type 2 Standing Liberty Quarter had recessed dates as a form of extra protection again wear. These were minted from 1925-1930 in the three US Mints Philadel, San Francisco and Denver.

Regular Strike

1925 – a total of 12,280,000 pieces were produced in the Philadelphia

1926 – a total of 11,316,000 pieces were produced in the Philadelphia

1926-D – a total of 1,716,000 pieces were produced in the Denver Mint

1926-S – a total of 2,700,000 pieces were produced in the San Francisco Mint

1927 – a total of 11,912,000 pieces were produced in the Philadelphia

1927-D – a total of 976,000 pieces were produced in the Denver Mint

1927-S – a total of 396,000 pieces were produced in the San Francisco Mint

1928 – a total of 6,336,000 pieces were produced in the Philadelphia

1928-D – a total of 1,627,600 pieces were produced in the Denver Mint

1928-S – a total of 2,644,000 pieces were produced in the San Francisco Mint

1929 – a total of 11,140,000 pieces were produced in the Philadelphia

1929-D – a total of 1,358,000 pieces were produced in the Denver Mint

1929-S – a total of 1,764,000 pieces were produced in the San Francisco Mint

1930 – a total of 5,632,000 pieces were produced in the Philadelphia

1930-S – a total of 1,556,000  pieces were produced in the San Francisco Mint

Collecting Standing Liberty Quarters

When collecting MacNeil’s Standing Liberty Quarters, the areas where you one needs to find signs of wear would be Miss Liberty’s right knee, the center of her shield, the Eagle’s breast and its left wing. Collectors will see that those coins with full heads are considered to be scarcer, and fully struck specimens are considered to be more substantial in price.

Some of the key dates for the Standing Liberty Quarters are the Type 1 1916, Type 2A 1918-S 8 over 7 overdate, 1920-S, 1926-S and Type 2B 1926-S. The rarest of them all is the Type 2A 1918-S 8 over 7 overdate which resulted from two hubs with different dates in them were used in preparing a single obverse die.

For PCGS-graded Standing Liberty Quarters, one can buy them between $8.00-$250,000.00. Even if the error coin Type 2A 1918-S 8 over 7 overdate is the rarest, it is the first one, the 1916 Standing Liberty that is priced the highest.

Sources:

PCGS, PCGS CoinFacts, NGC Coin, Coin Study


The Washington Quarters

B.R. Grossardt, Wikipedia Washington Quarters Obverse Designs, Size by Bonnie Mattie, CC BY-SA 4.0

Even if the Standing Liberty Quarters have only been used for about 15 years, it suffered an early demise as a new quarter coin was proposed in accordance to Gorge Washington’s 200th birthday. The first President of the United States will feature as the new obverse of the quarters as circulating commemorative coins.

Like the other coins before it, a competition was held wherein a New York Sculptor; John Flanagan was picked. The final design had a portrait showing the head Washington facing left. The legend LIBERTY is above him, the motto IN GOD WE TRUST just under his chin and the date below the portrait.

For the reverse, a modern Eagle is perched on a series of arrows. The legends UNITED STATES OF AMERICA and E PLURIBUS UNUM is above the Eagle while a wreath under it and the denomination QUARTER DOLLAR written below the Eagle.

The coins were minted from 1932 up until today at the US Mints located in Philadelphia, San Francisco and Denver. There are four types of the Washington Quarter according to PCGS Coin Facts. The main differences were the metal used in the coins and the facts that one type is proofs, while two are Bicentennials. Each coin weighs 6.30 grams, are 24.30 in diameter, and has a reeded edge.

The Four Types of Washington Quarters are as follows.

1. Type 1 Silver Washington Quarters

Minted from 1932-1964 and 1992-1998, it consists of regular, proof and special strike coins with a series of errors and varieties. These were minted in the Philadelphia, Denver and San Francisco Mints. This type was intended to be a commemorative coin, but since the public gave the currency a warm welcome, is was minted to be a regular-issued quarter coin. The coins consisted of 90% Silver and 10% Copper.

Regular Strike

1932 – a total of 5,404,000 pieces were minted at the Philadelphia Mint

1932-D – a total of 436,800 pieces were minted at the Denver Mint

1932-S – a total of 408,000 pieces were minted at the San Francisco Mint

1934 Medium Motto – a total of 31,912,052 pieces were minted at the Philadelphia Mint

1934 Light Motto  pieces were minted at the Philadelphia Mint- a total of 31,912,052 pieces were minted at the Philadelphia Mint

1934 Doubled Die Obverse – a total of  pieces were minted at the Philadelphia Mint

1934 Heavy Motto – a total of 31,912,052 pieces were minted at the Philadelphia Mint

1934-D – a total of 3,527,200 pieces were minted at the Denver Mint

1934-D Heavy Motto – a total of 3,527,200 pieces were minted at the Denver Mint

1935 – a total of 32,484,000 pieces were minted at the Philadelphia Mint

1935-D – a total of 5,780,000 pieces were minted at the Denver Mint

1935-S – a total of 5,660,000 pieces were minted at the San Francisco Mint

1936 – a total of 41,300,000 pieces were minted at the Philadelphia Mint

1936-D – a total of 5,374,000 pieces were minted at the Denver Mint

1936-S – a total of 3,828,000 pieces were minted at the San Francisco Mint

1937 – a total of 19,696,000 pieces were minted at the Philadelphia Mint

1937 Doubled Die Obverse – a total of 19,696,000 pieces were minted at the Philadelphia Mint

1937-D – a total of 7,189,600 pieces were minted at the Denver Mint

1937-S – a total of 1,652,000 pieces were minted at the San Francisco Mint

1938 – a total of 9,472,000 pieces were minted at the Philadelphia Mint

1938-S – a total of 2,832,000 pieces were minted at the San Francisco Mint

1939 – a total of 33,540,000 pieces were minted at the Philadelphia Mint

1939-D – a total of 7,092,000 pieces were minted at the Denver Mint

1939-S – a total of 2,628,000 pieces were minted at the San Francisco Mint

1940 – a total of 35,704,000 pieces were minted at the Philadelphia Mint

1940-D – a total of 2,797,600 pieces were minted at the Denver Mint

1940-S – a total of 8,244,000 pieces were minted at the San Francisco Mint

1941 – a total of 79,032,000 pieces were minted at the Philadelphia Mint

1941-D – a total of 16,714,800 pieces were minted at the Denver Mint

1941-S – a total of 16,080,000 pieces were minted at the San Francisco Mint

1942 – a total of 102,096,000 pieces were minted at the Philadelphia Mint

1942-D – a total of 17,487,200 pieces were minted at the Denver Mint

1942-D Doubled Die Obverse – a total of 17,487,200 pieces were minted at the Denver Mint

1942-S – a total of 19,384,000 pieces were minted at the San Francisco Mint

1943 – a total of 99,700,000 pieces were minted at the Philadelphia Mint

1943 Doubled Die – a total of 99,700,000 pieces were minted at the Philadelphia Mint

1943-D – a total of 16,095,600 pieces were minted at the Denver Mint

1943-S – a total of 21,700,000 pieces were minted at the San Francisco Mint

1943-S Doubled Die Obverse – n/a

1944 – a total of 104,956,000 pieces were minted at the Philadelphia Mint

1944-D – a total of 14,600,800 pieces were minted at the Denver Mint

1944-S – a total 12,560,000 pieces were minted at the San Francisco Mint

1945 – a total of 74,372,000 pieces were minted at the Philadelphia Mint

1945-D – a total of 12,341,600 pieces were minted at the Denver Mint

1945-S – a total of 17,004,001 pieces were minted at the San Francisco Mint

1946 – a total of 53,436,000 pieces were minted at the Philadelphia Mint

1946-D – a total of 9,072,800 pieces were minted at the Denver Mint

1946-S – a total of 4,204,000 pieces were minted at the San Francisco Mint

1947 – a total of 22,556,000 pieces were minted at the Philadelphia Mint

1947-D – a total of 15,338,400 pieces were minted at the Denver Mint

1947-S – a total of 5,532,000 pieces were minted at the San Francisco Mint

1948 – a total of 35,196,000 pieces were minted at the Philadelphia Mint

1948-D – a total of 16,766,800 pieces were minted at the Denver Mint

1948-S – a total of 15,960,000 pieces were minted at the San Francisco Mint

1949 – a total of 9,312,000 pieces were minted at the Philadelphia Mint

1949-D – a total of 10,068,400 pieces were minted at the Denver Mint

1950 – a total of 24,920,126 pieces were minted at the Philadelphia Mint

1950-D – a total of 21,075,600 pieces were minted at the Denver Mint

1950-D/S – a total of 21,075,600 pieces were minted at the Denver Mint

1950-S – a total of 10,284,004 pieces were minted at the San Francisco Mint

1950-S/D – a total of 10,284,004 pieces were minted at the San Francisco Mint

1951 – a total of 43,448,102 pieces were minted at the Philadelphia Mint

1951-D – a total of 35,354,800 pieces were minted at the Denver Mint

1951-S – a total of 9,048,000 pieces were minted at the San Francisco Mint

1952 – a total of 38,780,093 pieces were minted at the Philadelphia Mint

1952-D – a total of 49,795,200 pieces were minted at the Denver Mint

1952-S – a total of 13,707,800 pieces were minted at the San Francisco Mint

1953 – a total of 18,536,120 pieces were minted at the Philadelphia Mint

1953-D – a total of 56,112,400 pieces were minted at the Denver Mint

1953-S – a total of 14,016,000 pieces were minted at the San Francisco Mint

1954 – a total of 54,412,203 pieces were minted at the Philadelphia Mint

1954-D – a total of 42,305,500 pieces were minted at the Denver Mint

1954-S – a total of 11,834,722 pieces were minted at the San Francisco Mint

1955 – a total of 18,180,181 pieces were minted at the Philadelphia Mint

1955-D – a total of 3,182,400 pieces were minted at the Denver Mint

1956 – a total of 44,144,000 pieces were minted at the Philadelphia Mint

1956-D – a total of 32,334,500 pieces were minted at the Denver Mint

1957 – a total of 46,532,000 pieces were minted at the Philadelphia Mint

1957-D – a total of 77,924,160 pieces were minted at the Denver Mint

1958 – a total of 6,360,000 pieces were minted at the Philadelphia Mint

1958-D – a total of 78,124,900 pieces were minted at the Denver Mint

1959 – a total of 24,384,000 pieces were minted at the Philadelphia Mint

1959-D – a total of 62,054,232 pieces were minted at the Denver Mint

1960 – a total of 29,164,000 pieces were minted at the Philadelphia Mint

1960-D – a total of 63,000,324 pieces were minted at the Denver Mint

1961 – a total of 37,036,000 pieces were minted at the Philadelphia Mint

1961-D – a total of 83,656,928 pieces were minted at the Denver Mint

1962 – a total of 36,156,000 pieces were minted at the Philadelphia Mint

1962-D – a total of 127,554,756 pieces were minted at the Denver Mint

1963 – a total of 74,316,000 pieces were minted at the Philadelphia Mint

1963-D – a total of 135,288,184 pieces were minted at the Denver Mint

1964 – a total of 560,390,585 pieces were minted at the Philadelphia Mint

1964-D – a total of 704,135,528 pieces were minted at the Denver Mint

Proofs

1936 – a total of 3,837 pieces were minted at the Philadelphia Mint

1937 – a total of 5,542 pieces were minted at the Philadelphia Mint

1938 – a total of 8,045 pieces were minted at the Philadelphia Mint

1939 – a total of 8,795 pieces were minted at the Philadelphia Mint

1940 – a total of 11,246 pieces were minted at the Philadelphia Mint

1941 – a total of 15,287 pieces were minted at the Philadelphia Mint

1942 – a total of 21,123 pieces were minted at the Philadelphia Mint

1950 – a total of 51,386 pieces were minted at the Philadelphia Mint

1951 – a total of 57,500 pieces were minted at the Philadelphia Mint

1952 – a total of 81,980 pieces were minted at the Philadelphia Mint

1953 – a total of 128,800 pieces were minted at the Philadelphia Mint

1954 – a total of 233,300 pieces were minted at the Philadelphia Mint

1955 – a total of 378,200 pieces were minted at the Philadelphia Mint

1956 – a total of 669,384 pieces were minted at the Philadelphia Mint

1957 – a total of 1,247,952 pieces were minted at the Philadelphia Mint

1958 – a total of 875,652 pieces were minted at the Philadelphia Mint

1959 – a total of 1,149,291 pieces were minted at the Philadelphia Mint

1960 – a total of 1,691,602 pieces were minted at the Philadelphia Mint

1961 – a total of 3,028,244 pieces were minted at the Philadelphia Mint

1962 – a total of 3,218,019 pieces were minted at the Philadelphia Mint

1963 – a total of 3,075,645 pieces were minted at the Philadelphia Mint

1964 – a total of 3,950,762 pieces were minted at the Philadelphia Mint

Special Strikes

1964 SMS – n/a

2. Type 1 Silver Proof

Minted from 1992-1998, all were made at the San Francisco Mint, and are made up of 90% Silver, 10% Copper.

Proofs

1992-S Silver – a total of 1,317,579 pieces were minted at the San Francisco Mint

1993-S Silver – a total of 761,353 pieces were minted at the San Francisco Mint

1994-S Silver – a total of 785,329 pieces were minted at the San Francisco Mint

1995-S Silver – a total of 838,953 pieces were minted at the San Francisco Mint

1996-S Silver – n/a

1997-S Silver – n/a

1998-S Silver – n/a

3. Type 2 Clad

By 1965, the Washington Quarters were minted with 75% Copper, 25% Nickel over a pure Copper centre as the price of Silver exceeded its face value. These were minted at the three US Mints from 1965 up until 1998, wherein only proofs were minted at the San Francisco Mint. There are no rarities in this series.

Regular Strike

1965 – a total of 1,819,717,540 pieces were minted at the Philadelphia Mint

1966 – a total of 821,101,500 pieces were minted at the Philadelphia Mint

1967 – a total of 1,524,031,848 pieces were minted at the Philadelphia Mint

1968 – a total of 220,731,500 pieces were minted at the Philadelphia Mint

1968-D – a total of 101,534,000 pieces were minted at the Denver Mint

1969 – a total of 176,212,000 pieces were minted at the Philadelphia Mint

1969-D – a total of 114,372,000 pieces were minted at the Denver Mint

1970 – a total of 136,420,000 pieces were minted at the Philadelphia Mint

1970-D – a total of 417,341,364 pieces were minted at the Denver Mint

1971 – a total of 109,284,000 pieces were minted at the Philadelphia Mint

1971-D – a total of 258,634,428 pieces were minted at the Denver Mint

1972 – a total of 215,048,000 pieces were minted at the Philadelphia Mint

1972-D – a total of 311,067,732 pieces were minted at the Denver Mint

1973 – a total of 346,924,000 pieces were minted at the Philadelphia Mint

1973-D – a total of 232,977,400 pieces were minted at the Denver Mint

1974 – a total of 801,456,000 pieces were minted at the Philadelphia Mint

1974-D – a total of 353,160,300 pieces were minted at the Denver Mint

1977 – a total of 468,556,000 pieces were minted at the Philadelphia Mint

1977-D – a total of 256,524,978 pieces were minted at the Denver Mint

1978 – a total of 521,452,000 pieces were minted at the Philadelphia Mint

1978-D – a total of 287,373,152 pieces were minted at the Denver Mint

1979 – a total of 515,708,000 pieces were minted at the Philadelphia Mint

1979-D – a total of 489,789,780 pieces were minted at the Denver Mint

1980-P – a total of 635,832,000 pieces were minted at the Philadelphia Mint

1980-D – a total of 518,327,487 pieces were minted at the Denver Mint

1981-P – a total of 601,716,000 pieces were minted at the Philadelphia Mint

1981-D – a total of 575,722,833 pieces were minted at the Denver Mint

1982-P – a total of 500,931,000 pieces were minted at the Philadelphia Mint

1982-D – a total of 480,042,788 pieces were minted at the Denver Mint

1983-P – a total of 673,535,000 pieces were minted at the Philadelphia Mint

1983-D – a total of 617,806,446 pieces were minted at the Denver Mint

1984-P – a total of 676,545,000 pieces were minted at the Philadelphia Mint

1984-D – a total of 546,483,064 pieces were minted at the Denver Mint

1985-P – a total of 775,818,962 pieces were minted at the Philadelphia Mint

1985-D – a total of 519,962,888 pieces were minted at the Denver Mint

1986-P – a total of 551,199,333 pieces were minted at the Philadelphia Mint

1986-D – a total of 504,298,660 pieces were minted at the Denver Mint

1987-P – a total of 582,499,481 pieces were minted at the Philadelphia Mint

1987-D – a total of 655,594,696 pieces were minted at the Denver Mint

1988-P – a total of 562,052,000 pieces were minted at the Philadelphia Mint

1988-D – a total of 596,810,688 pieces were minted at the Denver Mint

1989-P – a total of 512,868,000 pieces were minted at the Philadelphia Mint

1989-D – a total of 896,535,597 pieces were minted at the Denver Mint

1990-P – a total of 613,792,000 pieces were minted at the Philadelphia Mint

1990-D – a total of 927,638,181 pieces were minted at the Denver Mint

1991-P – a total of 570,968,000 pieces were minted at the Philadelphia Mint

1991-D – a total of 630,966,693 pieces were minted at the Denver Mint

1992-P – a total of 384,764,000 pieces were minted at the Philadelphia Mint

1992-D – a total of 389,777,107 pieces were minted at the Denver Mint

1993-P – a total of 639,276,000 pieces were minted at the Philadelphia Mint

1993-D – a total of 645,476,128 pieces were minted at the Denver Mint

1994-P – a total of 825,600,000 pieces were minted at the Philadelphia Mint

1994-D – a total of 880,034,110 pieces were minted at the Denver Mint

1995-P – a total of 1,004,336,000 pieces were minted at the Philadelphia Mint

1995-D – a total of 1,103,216,000 pieces were minted at the Denver Mint

1996-P – a total of 906,868,000 pieces were minted at the Philadelphia Mint

1996-D – a total of 595,740,000 pieces were minted at the Denver Mint

1997-P – a total of 599,680,000 pieces were minted at the Philadelphia Mint

1997-D – a total of 896,268,000 pieces were minted at the Denver Mint

1998-P – a total of 821,000,000 pieces were minted at the Philadelphia Mint

1998-D – a total of 3,041,506 pieces were minted at the Denver Mint

Proofs

1968-S – a total of 3,041,506 pieces were minted at the San Francisco Mint

1969-S – a total of 2,934,631 pieces were minted at the San Francisco Mint

1970-S – a total of 2,632,810 pieces were minted at the San Francisco Mint

1971-S – a total of 3,220,733 pieces were minted at the San Francisco Mint

1972-S – a total of 3,300,000 pieces were minted at the San Francisco Mint

1973-S – a total of 2,760,339 pieces were minted at the San Francisco Mint

1974-S – a total of 2,612,568 pieces were minted at the San Francisco Mint

1977-S – a total of 3,251,152 pieces were minted at the San Francisco Mint

1978-S – a total of 3,127,781 pieces were minted at the San Francisco Mint

1979-S Type 1 – a total of 3,677,175 pieces were minted at the San Francisco Mint

1979-S Type 2 – a total of 3,677,175 pieces were minted at the San Francisco Mint

1980-S – a total of 3,554,806 pieces were minted at the San Francisco Mint

1981-S Type 1 – a total of 4,063,083 pieces were minted at the San Francisco Mint

1981-S Type 2 – a total of 4,063,083 pieces were minted at the San Francisco Mint

1982-S – a total of 3,857,479 pieces were minted at the San Francisco Mint

1983-S – a total of 3,279,126 pieces were minted at the San Francisco Mint

1984-S – a total of 3,065,110 pieces were minted at the San Francisco Mint

1985-S – a total of 3,362,821 pieces were minted at the San Francisco Mint

1986-S – a total of 3,010,497 pieces were minted at the San Francisco Mint

1987-S – a total of 4,227,728 pieces were minted at the San Francisco Mint

1988-S – a total of 3,262,948 pieces were minted at the San Francisco Mint

1989-S – a total of 3,220,194 pieces were minted at the San Francisco Mint

1990-S – a total of 3,299,559 pieces were minted at the San Francisco Mint

1991-S – a total of 2,867,787 pieces were minted at the San Francisco Mint

1992-S – a total of 2,858,981 pieces were minted at the San Francisco Mint

1993-S – a total of 2,633,439 pieces were minted at the San Francisco Mint

1994-S – a total of 2,484,594 pieces were minted at the San Francisco Mint

1995-S – a total of 2,010,384 pieces were minted at the San Francisco Mint

1996-S – n/a

1997-S – a total of 1,975,000

1998-S – n/a

Special Strikes

1965 SMS – a total of 2,300,000 pieces were minted at the Philadelphia Mint

1966 SMS – a total of 2,200,000 pieces were minted at the Philadelphia Mint

1967 SMS – a total of 1,800,000 pieces were minted at the Philadelphia Mint

4. Type 3 Clad, Bi-Centennial Reverse

By the year 1976, it was considered the 200th anniversary of the United States’ Declaration of Independence even if it ended in 1783. For this reason, a few US coins were created to commemorate this event. The obverse will feature a dual date (1776-1976 while the reverse features a colonial drummer boy.

This type was only minted for a year – in 1976 at the three US Mints. These were made up of 75% Copper, 25% Nickel over a pure Copper center and were designed by John Flanagan.

Regular Strike

1976 Clad – a total of 809,784,016 pieces were minted at the Philadelphia Mint

1976-D Clad – a total of 860,118,839 pieces were minted at the Denver Mint

Proofs

1976-S Clad – a total of 7,059,099 pieces were minted at the San Francisco Mint

4. Type 4 Silver, Bi-Centennial Reverse

On the same year, 1976, the Bicentennial Reverse was resurrected and were composed of 40% Silver and 60% Copper. These were all minted at the San Francisco Mint.

Regular Strike

1976-S 25C Silver – a total of 11,000,000 pieces were minted at the San Francisco Mint

Proofs

1976-S 25C Silver – a total of 4,000,000 pieces were minted at the San Francisco Mint

Collecting Washington Quarters

Coin collectors would find it easy enough to collect Washington Quarters at any grade, but Mint States quarters are popular. One should look for signs of wear on Washington’s hair, ear and the Eagle’s breast.

Because of the long mintages, there are a couple of errors and varieties that one would find interesting to collect. Major varieties includes Doubled Die Obverses, Over-Mint Marks, Heavy, Medium and Light Mottos. The key dates are the 1932-D, 1932-S, 1934 Light Motto, 1934 Heavy Motto, 1934 Doubled Die Obverse (DDO) 1936-D, 1937 Doubled Die Obverse, 1942-D Doubled Die Obverse, 1943 Doubled Die Obverse, 1943-S Doubled Die Obverse, 1950-D D/S (D Over S Repunched Mintmark), 1950-S S/D (S Over D Repunched Mintmark), Type 1 and 2 Mintmarks of Proof 1979-S and 1981-S.

The price on has to pay when it comes to Washington Quarters will depend on its grade or condition and rarity among others. One can buy PCGS-graded Washington Quarters from $4.00-40,000.00. For a price guide, you may check the link below

https://www.pcgs.com/prices/priceguidedetail.aspx?c=112&title=washington+quarter&MS=4&PR=2

Sources:

PCGS, PCGS Coin Facts, NGC, WashingtonQuarters.com