Price Guide for 1848 Quarter Variants
This guide presents price ranges for 1848 Quarter variants from three sources: eBay sales, third-party auctions, and PCGS guides. Values are shown for various conditions, allowing collectors to compare across different market segments. Price estimates may vary between sources, especially for rarer variants.
1848 Quarter (Regular Strike)
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $4.35 - $2,530.00Uncirculated: $282.00 - $21,150.00
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eBayCirculated: $182.50 - $743.00Uncirculated: $7,000.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $35.00 - $1,750.00Uncirculated: $2,000.00 - $15,000.00
1848 Quarter, CAM (Proof)
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $39,950.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $65,000.00
1848 Quarter (Proof)
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $20,900.00 - $66,000.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $12,500.00 - $85,000.00
Design and Specifications of the 1848 Quarter
The 1848 Quarter was part of the Seated Liberty series, which began in 1838 and continued until 1891. This year was significant as it marked the beginning of the California Gold Rush, which would have a profound impact on American coinage in the following years. The Seated Liberty design, featuring Lady Liberty seated on a rock, was a departure from earlier designs and became iconic in American numismatics.
| Weight | 6.68 grams |
|---|---|
| Diameter | 24.3 mm |
| Mint Marks | No mint mark (Philadelphia) |
| Composition | 90% silver, 10% copper |
| Obverse Design | Seated Liberty, designed by Christian Gobrecht |
| Reverse Design | Heraldic Eagle, designed by Christian Gobrecht |
Rarity Factors and Value Drivers
Condition plays a crucial role in the value of 1848 Quarters. Due to their age and limited mintage, high-grade specimens are exceptionally rare and highly sought after by collectors. Coins in Mint State (MS) condition, particularly MS63 and above, command significant premiums.
The strike quality can vary, with some coins showing weakness in certain areas. Well-struck examples with full details are more desirable. Original luster is highly prized, and coins with attractive, natural toning can also command a premium.
Mintage: 146,000
Rarity Scale: Scarce
Circulation Status: Limited Circulation
Preservation Rarity: Extremely rare in grades MS65 and above
Varieties Errors: None widely recognized
Market Demand: High, especially for well-preserved specimens
The 1848 Quarter is considered a key date in the Seated Liberty series due to its low mintage. This scarcity, combined with its historical significance during the start of the California Gold Rush, makes it highly desirable to collectors.
The survival rate for this issue is relatively low, particularly in higher grades. Many were likely melted down or lost to circulation over time. As a result, even lower grade examples can be valuable.
Provenance can also play a role in value, with coins from famous collections or with a documented history of ownership potentially commanding higher prices at auction.
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