View Charts
A Guide to Collecting Key Date Issues of the Standing Liberty Quarters Series
At Bullion Exchanges, we appreciate the historical and artistic value of classic American coinage. The Standing Liberty Quarter, minted from 1916 to 1930, is one of the most beautiful and historically significant silver coins in U.S. numismatics. Designed by Hermon Atkins MacNeil, the coin features a stunning image of Lady Liberty on the obverse and a soaring eagle on the reverse. This series includes several key date issues that are particularly sought after by collectors due to their rarity and historical importance.
The Iconic 1916 Standing Liberty Quarter
Image source: https://www.usacoinbook.com
Mintage: 52,000
Historical Context: The 1916 Standing Liberty Quarter marks the debut of this series. Due to a low mintage of only 52,000 coins, this Philadelphia Mint issue is one of the rarest and most valuable. The initial Type-1 design, which depicted Liberty with an exposed breast, was modified in mid-1917 due to public outcry. As a result, the 1916 version is highly desirable among collectors as the only full year release of the Type-1 style.
Collector's Insight: The 1916 Standing Liberty Quarter is a cornerstone for any collection. Its scarcity and historical context make it a valuable and treasured piece. High-grade examples can fetch prices into the tens of thousands at auctions, reflecting their enduring appeal.
The Rare 1918/7-S Overdate Standing Liberty Quarter
Image source: https://www.pcgs.com/coinfacts
Mintage: Unknown exact quantity of overdate
Historical Context: The 1918/7-S Standing Liberty Quarter is a famous overdate error, created when a 1918 die was struck over a 1917 die. This minting error is clearly visible with the "8" overlapping the "7" in the date. Produced at the San Francisco Mint, this error coin is one of the most well-known and sought-after in U.S. coinage history.
Collector's Insight: The 1918/7-S overdate is a prized possession due to its rarity and the story behind its creation. Collectors often seek out this error coin to add an element of uniqueness and history to their collections. High-grade examples are exceptionally rare and command premium prices upwards of $50,000.
The Scarce 1927-S Standing Liberty Quarter
Image source: https://www.pcgs.com/coinfacts
Mintage: 396,000
Historical Context: The 1927-S Standing Liberty Quarter is known for its low mintage and rarity in high grades. Many of these coins were heavily circulated, making it extremely difficult to find well-preserved examples. This coin is highly valued by collectors for its scarcity and the challenge it presents in obtaining a mint-state specimen.
Collector's Insight: The 1927-S is a key date that adds significant value to any Standing Liberty Quarter collection. Its low mintage and the difficulty of finding high-quality examples make it a highly sought-after piece. Collectors who acquire a high-grade 1927-S quarter can expect to see substantial appreciation in value over time.
Benefits of Professional Grading
Authentication: Grading services such as the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) and the Numismatic Guaranty Company (NGC) provide authentication, ensuring the coin's legitimacy and protecting against counterfeits.
Condition Assessment: Professional grading assigns a precise grade based on a standardized scale, which helps in accurately determining the coin's market value.
Market Trust: Graded coins often achieve higher market prices due to the confidence that buyers have in the grading process.
Protection and Longevity: Encapsulation in tamper-proof holders protects the coin from physical damage and environmental effects.
Enhanced Liquidity: Professionally graded coins are easier to sell or trade, as the standardized grading facilitates smoother transactions and often results in higher resale values.
Collecting Tips
When collecting key date Standing Liberty Quarters, it is essential to verify the authenticity and condition of each coin. Look for distinct features and mint marks that characterize these rare issues. Knowledge of the coin's history and careful inspection of its condition can guide you in making informed purchases. Seeking advice from numismatic experts and using resources from reputable organizations can significantly improve your collecting experience.
Conclusion
The Standing Liberty Quarter series is a testament to American numismatic artistry and history, with key date issues like the 1916, 1918/7-S, and 1927-S standing out for their rarity and significance. At Bullion Exchanges, we offer expert advice and a diverse selection of collectible coins. Visit our website, our New York City location or contact us to augment your collection with these exciting early 20th century coins.