1877-S S / Horizontal S Seated Liberty Quarter
Your Coins
Sign up to track your coinsTap Add Coin to sign up and start tracking your collection.
About the Seated Liberty Quarter
The Seated Liberty Quarter is a highly sought-after, collectible reward for American history and coin collectors alike. Originally produced from 1838-1891, the Seated Liberty Quarter is unique in being one of the earliest coins issued in the United States. Though the quarter found its roots in a series of half dimes and silver coins in the early 19th century, it was during the second half of the century when it finally began its evolution into the beloved version of the Seated Liberty Quarter coin.
The obverse face of the Seated Liberty Quarter features a stoic, yet graceful depiction of Liberty seated on a rock with a shield resting on her left side. Described by some as a beacon of hope and strength, Liberty wears a billowing gown and is capped with a Phrygian cap. Engraved around Liberty's image is the phrase "In God We Trust," an early reflection of the shifts in values of the growing nation. The reverse of the coin features an eagle in repose, wings outstretched, with a shield at its chest, as well as an olive branch and bundle of arrows in its talons. The coin's reverse is further fitted with thirteen stars symbolizing the thirteen American colonies that began the union.
The Seated Liberty Quarter underwent many unique changes throughout its 53-year minting period. Due to high production levels and a shortage of certain metals, the composition of the Seated Liberty Quarter evolved from 80 % silver and 20 % copper, to an alloy comprising 90% silver and 10% copper, and finally, ending in 1869 with a change to a wholly silver coin. In terms of design, differences include the addition of drapery behind Liberty, as well as an 1853 embellishment of arrows on either side of the date.
The Seated Liberty Quarter is now a highly sought-after coin by collectors due to its patriotic design, composition, and historical significance. It is estimated that only around 8,000 examples exist in high grade, making this coin a rare and valuable find. PCGS prices range from just under $50 to over $18,000 US dollars, making the Seated Liberty Quarter a coin worth hunting for collectors.
The 1877-S S / Horizontal S Seated Liberty Quarter coin, struck at the San Francisco, California mint, engraved by Christian Gobrecht, and made of silver (.900) (.100 copper). Weighing 6.25 grams, with a diameter of 24.3 mm, and a thickness of 1.75 mm, and featuring a reeded edge.
The obverse is seated liberty looking right above her shoulder, with a cap on a stick and a shield, 13 stars around. It reads “1881”. The reverse is eagle with arrows and olive branch in talons, banner with motto above. It reads “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA IN GOD WE TRUST QUAR. DOL.”.
Price by Grade
Sign up to see prices| Grade | Price (USD) |
|---|---|
| 4 | $35.00 |
| 8 | $40.00 |
| 12 | $45.00 |
| 20 | $45.00 |
| 40 | $80.00 |
| 50 | $190.00 |
| 55 | $240.00 |
| 58 | $290.00 |
| 60 | $320.00 |
| 62 | $400.00 |
| 63 | $700.00 |
| 64 | $900.00 |
| 65 | $1,300.00 |
| 66 | $3,400.00 |
Specifications
- Type
- Standard circulation coin
- Composition
- Silver (.900) (.100 copper)
- Weight
- 6.25 g
- Diameter
- 24.3 mm
- Thickness
- 1.75 mm
- Edge
- Reeded
- Designer
- Christian Gobrecht
- Currency
- Dollar (1785-date)
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the 1877-S S / Horizontal S Seated Liberty Quarter made of?
- The 1877-S S / Horizontal S Seated Liberty Quarter is made of silver (.900) (.100 copper), weighs 6.25 grams, measures 24.3 mm in diameter.
- Where was the 1877-S S / Horizontal S Seated Liberty Quarter minted?
- The 1877-S S / Horizontal S Seated Liberty Quarter was struck at the San Francisco, California mint.
- How much is a 1877-S S / Horizontal S Seated Liberty Quarter worth?
- A 1877-S S / Horizontal S Seated Liberty Quarter is valued between $35 and $3400, depending on grade and condition.
eBay Listings
As an eBay Partner, we may be compensated if you make a purchase.