1917 Standing Liberty Quarter Type 1 Value Guide

The 1917 Standing Liberty Quarter Type 1 is a premier numismatic rarity representing Hermon Atkins MacNeil's original, uncensored artistic vision. It is highly collectible due to its short production window and the historical controversy surrounding Liberty's exposed breast, which was covered in the subsequent Type 2 redesign.

What Is 1917 Standing Liberty Quarter Type 1 Worth?

The typical price range for 1917 Standing Liberty Quarter Type 1 is $55 - $65 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• The presence of 'Full Head' (FH) detail on Liberty significantly increases the coin's market premium.
• Overall strike quality and the level of wear on the high points, such as the shield and Liberty's knee.
• Surface preservation, including the presence of original mint luster or distracting contact marks.
• Current market demand for the Type 1 variety, typically valued between $55 and $65 for circulated examples.

How to Identify 1917 Standing Liberty Quarter Type 1?

• Verify the absence of three stars below the eagle on the reverse, a hallmark of the Type 1 design.
• Check for the exposed right breast on Liberty, which distinguishes it from the later 1917 Type 2 chainmail version.
• Confirm the 90% silver and 10% copper composition and the 1917 date located at the base of the pedestal.
• Look for the designer's initial 'M' located to the right of the date.

History of 1917 Standing Liberty Quarter Type 1

Designed by Hermon Atkins MacNeil, the Standing Liberty Quarter was first released in 1916. The 1917 Type 1 is famous for showing Liberty with an exposed right breast; public outcry regarding modesty led to the Type 2 redesign later that same year, which covered Liberty in a coat of chainmail. This specific coin represents the original, more controversial artistic vision.