Seated Liberty Quarters
Coin enthusiasts are well aware of the many varieties of quarters that are available to add to their private collections. Today the modern collector may look for the "silver" quarters that were being produced until 1965 or they might be inclined to concentrate on coins with the Barber, Draped Bust or Standing Liberty design. Among the favorites of many collectors are the highly popular quarters that display the Seated Liberty engraving.
In 1838 America was presented with the first of the Seated Liberty quarters. These began to be produced after the introduction of the Seated Liberty silver dollars and both coins were well received by the public. For many people the classic beauty of the designs make these quarters and silver dollars collectible as works of art.
Seated Liberty Quarters Designs
The design of the Seated Liberty quarter has changed over the years. There are 7 distinctively different modifications to this series of quarters that spans more than 50 years. The very first change was seen in 1840 when a draped material was added to the figure's elbow. In 1853 the coin's reverse side was altered so that the eagle could be highlighted with a spray of rays in the background. This was the year that the front date was also bracketed by arrows.
The front of a Seated Liberty quarter shows the national icon in a sitting position. She is depicted with one of her hands holding a pole and the other resting on a shield. The pole is flying a Liberty cap, or mobcap, and these represent freedom and resolution. On the reverse of the coin is a heraldic eagle design almost identical to the one that was used on the 1796-1807 Bust quarters. The only detail that separates these two designs is that the eagle on the reverse of the Seated Liberty coin does not have a scroll. These eagles are clutching arrows in one claw and the other holds an olive branch. These two objects signify the willingness and ability of the American people to pursue either war or peace.
Connect with the Past
To many individuals these Seated Liberty coins continue to radiate feelings of pride, courage and independence. These tangible parts of history allow a personal connection with the past and are highly desirable. There is a large group of dedicated collectors actively seeking to buy the finest examples that are available.
Basics of Collecting
Collecting Seated Liberty quarters is a fascinating hobby that almost anyone can enjoy. Some early dates are easy to find because of the relatively large numbers of coins that were minted. Be aware that the NM or Uncirculated specimens are much more difficult to locate, and these will cost much more than the ones that are graded as good or fair. If you want to develop a serious collection of coins you should always try to find those that with at least a grade of G-VG.
Investment Possibilities
There are few mint Seated Liberty quarters with dates earlier than 1874 and these are all highly prized by collectors. The prices that some of these coins can bring are staggering and it is the investment potential that attracts many new members to the world of coin collecting. It is quite possible for beginners to make a respectable profit in this hobby if they make wise acquisitions. This is why it is so crucial that you learn as much information about the coins as possible before you begin to buy, sell or trade.
Rare Examples and Prices
The 1870 CC coins that were minted at Carson City are some that any serious coin collector would mortgage their home to obtain. Another extremely rare Seated Liberty is the one known as the "No Arrows" 1873CC. At the present time there are only 3 existing examples and in 1990 one of these Seated Liberty designs sold for more than $300,000. This amount almost quadrupled the price that had been paid for it only 15 years earlier.
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