1859 Seated Liberty Quarter Value Guide

The 1859 Seated Liberty Quarter is a premier example of Christian Gobrecht's artistry, minted during a pivotal era of American economic expansion just before the Civil War. Its historical significance and 90% silver composition make it a cornerstone for collectors of mid-19th-century United States coinage.

What Is 1859 Seated Liberty Quarter Worth?

The typical price range for 1859 Seated Liberty Quarter is $75 - $100 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• The overall grade and preservation of fine details, particularly on Liberty's hair and the eagle's feathers.
• The presence of a mint mark (such as 'S' for San Francisco or 'O' for New Orleans) versus the Philadelphia issue.
• Surface quality, including the absence of heavy scratches, cleaning marks, or significant environmental damage.
• Market demand for coins from the pre-Civil War era, which often commands a premium in higher grades.

How to Identify 1859 Seated Liberty Quarter?

• Verify the presence of Lady Liberty seated on a rock, holding a shield in her left hand and a staff with a liberty cap in her right.
• Check the reverse for the 'QUAR. DOL.' denomination and a perched eagle with a shield on its chest.
• Confirm the 1859 date is clearly struck at the bottom of the obverse side below the rock.
• Ensure the coin is made of silver and lacks the arrows at the date found on earlier 1853-1855 issues.

History of 1859 Seated Liberty Quarter

The Seated Liberty design was a staple of United States coinage for over 50 years, from 1836 to 1891. Designed by Christian Gobrecht, it depicted Lady Liberty, a symbol of freedom and American ideals, in a classical pose. These coins were minted in various denominations, including the quarter, and are highly sought after by collectors due to their historical significance and artistic merit. The 1859 issue is particularly notable as it falls within a period of economic expansion and the lead-up to the Civil War, making it a tangible piece of American history.