1849 Quarter Value: Seated Liberty Quarter Worth & Guide
1849 Seated Liberty Quarter values: Philadelphia $45-$15,000, 1849-O key date $2,000-$40,000. Proof extreme rarity. Complete price guide and identification tips.
The 1849 Seated Liberty Quarter is worth $45 to $47,000 depending on mint, strike type, and condition.
- 1849 Philadelphia (business strike): $45 (G-4) to $15,000 (MS-65)
- 1849-O New Orleans (key date): $2,000 (G-4) to $40,000 (MS-64)
- 1849 Philadelphia Proof (extreme rarity): $28,200 to $47,000 (only 3-5 known)
The 1849-O is a premier key date with only ~16,000 minted, commanding a forty-fold premium over the Philadelphia issue even in low grades.
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1849 Seated Liberty Quarter: Overview and Significance
1849 Seated Liberty Quarter, Type 2 design with drapery at Liberty's elbow
The 1849 United States quarter dollar represents a fascinating study in numismatic contrasts within the long-running Seated Liberty series. All quarters struck this year feature Christian Gobrecht's Type 2 "No Motto" design, distinguished by the addition of drapery at Liberty's elbow. While the Philadelphia issue with its 340,000 mintage serves as an accessible "better date" for collectors, the New Orleans issue stands as a premier key date with approximately 16,000 coins minted—a forty-fold rarity reflected in its pricing.
Values range from $45 for a circulated Philadelphia quarter to over $40,000 for a choice uncirculated 1849-O specimen. Adding to the year's prestige is the Philadelphia-minted Proof strike, an object of extreme rarity with only three to five specimens known to exist, commanding prices approaching $47,000.
This comprehensive guide examines the market values, authentication protocols, grading nuances, and collecting strategies for all three 1849 quarter varieties, supported by recent auction data and expert research.
How to Identify Your 1849 Quarter Dollar
Type 2 design diagnostic: drapery fold extending from Liberty's elbow
All 1849 quarters belong to the Type 2, No Motto design of the Seated Liberty series, which was produced from 1840 to 1865 (excluding the "Arrows" years of 1853-55). This design type is characterized by a critical diagnostic feature that distinguishes it from the earlier Type 1 coinage.
Design Characteristics
Obverse: The central motif features Liberty seated on a rock, facing left. Her left hand holds a pole topped with a Phrygian (or Liberty) cap, while her right hand supports a Union shield inscribed with the word LIBERTY. The defining characteristic of the Type 2 design is the presence of a fold of drapery extending from her left elbow down towards her knee. The date 1849 is positioned below the rock, and thirteen stars encircle the upper periphery.
Reverse: The reverse features a heraldic eagle with outstretched wings, clutching an olive branch in its right talon and a bundle of arrows in its left. A shield is superimposed on the eagle's breast. The legend UNITED STATES OF AMERICA appears above the eagle, with the denomination expressed as QUAR. DOL. below.
Mint Mark Identification
O mint mark location on reverse, below eagle's talons and above denomination
The mint of origin is determined by the presence or absence of a mint mark on the reverse:
- Philadelphia (no mint mark): Coins struck at the Philadelphia Mint bear no mint mark. These are the most common 1849 quarters with a mintage of 340,000.
- New Orleans (O): Coins struck at the New Orleans Mint feature a prominent "O" mint mark located on the reverse, positioned below the eagle's talons and above the denomination "QUAR. DOL." This is the key date issue with approximately 16,000 minted.
Business Strike vs. Proof
The vast majority of 1849 quarters are business strikes produced for circulation. However, the Philadelphia Mint also produced a minuscule number of Proof strikes—presentation pieces with mirrored fields and sharp, squared rims. With only three to five examples known to survive, these are exceedingly rare and command five-figure prices. Proof coins were not officially recorded in mint reports during this era, making them objects of intense numismatic research and collector desire.
1849 Quarter Value: Complete Price Guide by Mint and Grade
The market value of an 1849 Seated Liberty Quarter varies dramatically based on three factors: the mint of origin, the strike type (business or proof), and the state of preservation. Below is a comprehensive analysis of current market values supported by recent auction results and professional price guides.
1849 Philadelphia Mint (Business Strike)
Grade comparison: wear progression from circulated to near-uncirculated
The Philadelphia issue is considered an accessible "better date" within the series. Examples in circulated grades up to Very Fine are readily available, while higher grades such as Extremely Fine and About Uncirculated are scarcer but regularly appear on the market. Mint State specimens, though not plentiful, exist in sufficient numbers to satisfy demand from advanced type collectors. NGC has graded a total of 121 examples across all conditions as of October 2025.
| Grade | PCGS Value | NGC Value | NGC Pop. |
|---|---|---|---|
| G-4 | ~$45 | $50 | 1 |
| VF-20 | ~$240 | $250 | 17 |
| EF-40 | ~$325 | $325 | 21 |
| AU-50 | ~$450 | $450 | 2 |
| AU-58 | ~$1,250 | $1,250 | 25 |
| MS-60 | ~$1,500 | $1,500 | 0 |
| MS-63 | ~$3,000 | $2,500 | 8 |
| MS-65 | ~$15,000 | $15,000 | 2 |
PCGS values estimated based on market alignment with NGC. Population data from NGC Coin Explorer, October 2025.
Notable Auction Results: An NGC-graded VF example sold for $182.40(NGC, March 2023), while a PCGS AU-55 realized $750(Heritage, June 2019). In Mint State, prices escalate significantly: a PCGS MS-64 sold for $6,462.50(Heritage, January 2014), and a PCGS MS-65 achieved $11,162.50(Heritage, August 2015).
1849-O New Orleans Mint (Key Date)
The 1849-O is a celebrated key date within the Seated Liberty series and a cornerstone of New Orleans numismatics. With a surviving population estimated at only 450 pieces across all grades, it is rare in any condition, very rare in Extremely Fine, and exceedingly rare in Mint State. NGC has graded only 53 examples total, with the finest known being a single MS-64 specimen. The census shows just five coins graded in any Mint State category: one MS-61, two MS-62, one MS-63, and the single MS-64.
| Grade | PCGS Value | NGC Value | NGC Pop. |
|---|---|---|---|
| G-4 | $2,000 | $2,000 | 8 |
| VF-20 | $4,500 | $4,500 | 7 |
| EF-40 | $8,000 | $7,750 | 6 |
| AU-50 | $9,000 | $9,000 | 2 |
| AU-58 | $18,500 | $18,500 | 2 |
| MS-62 | $25,000 | $23,500 | 2 |
| MS-64 | $40,000 | $40,000 | 1 |
PCGS and NGC values from respective price guides, October 2025. Population data from NGC Coin Explorer.
Notable Auction Results: An NGC G-4 realized $1,500(NGC, January 2023), while a PCGS VF-35 sold for $3,120(Heritage, February 2018). A PCGS AU-58 brought $14,100(Heritage, January 2016), an NGC MS-62 achieved $17,037.50(Heritage, April 2016), and the finest known NGC MS-64 sold for $24,675(Heritage, May 2015).
ℹ️ Mintage Controversy
Some databases erroneously list the 1849-O mintage as 412,000. However, specialist research by authorities such as Walter Breen and Larry Briggs, supported by compelling market evidence, indicates the true mintage is approximately 16,000 pieces. The forty-fold premium of the 1849-O over the Philadelphia issue (even in low grades) would be impossible if its mintage exceeded the Philadelphia figure.
1849 Philadelphia Proof (Extreme Rarity)
Proof coinage during the 1840s was not a formalized program as it is today. These special strikes were produced in minuscule quantities for presentation or to satisfy requests from well-connected collectors. The 1849 Proof Seated Liberty Quarter is an extreme rarity with PCGS estimating a total surviving population of just three to five coins. NGC has graded only two examples: one PR-63 and one PR-66.
Valuing such a rare coin requires tracking singular auction events rather than consulting standard price guides. The market for these "trophy coins" is defined by unique circumstances of each sale, with factors such as provenance, eye appeal, and bidder competition causing significant price fluctuations. A PCGS PR-65 sold for $47,000(Heritage, July 2013), but another PR-65 realized only $28,200 two years later (Heritage, June 2015). A PCGS PR-66 brought $47,000(Heritage, May 2015), while another PR-66 sold for $39,950(Heritage, August 2015).
Grading Your 1849 Seated Liberty Quarter
Primary areas that show wear first: obverse knee, breast, hair; reverse eagle's head, neck, claws
Accurate grading is essential for determining the value of your 1849 quarter. Seated Liberty quarters have specific high points that show wear first, and understanding these diagnostics helps distinguish between grade levels. The NGC grading guide provides detailed criteria for this series.
Key Wear Points
Obverse: Friction first appears on Liberty's knee, right breast, and the high points of her hair. As wear progresses, the details of the shield (particularly the word LIBERTY) begin to fade. In lower grades, the drapery lines become indistinct, and in the lowest grades, the date may show weakness.
Reverse: Check for wear on the eagle's head, neck, claws, and the top edges of its wings. The shield on the eagle's breast is also a high point. As wear increases, feather detail diminishes, and in very worn examples, the eagle's outline becomes soft and indistinct.
Grade Characteristics
Good (G-4): Heavy wear with date and major devices visible but worn flat. Liberty's outline is clear but internal details are mostly gone. The eagle on reverse shows outline only with little to no feather detail.
Very Fine (VF-20): Moderate wear with Liberty's shield details visible and some drapery lines showing. On the reverse, some feather detail remains in the eagle, particularly in the wing centers and breast area.
Extremely Fine (EF-40): Light wear on highest points only. Liberty's knee shows slight flatness but most details are sharp. Eagle shows nearly full feather definition with only the highest points showing wear.
About Uncirculated (AU-58): Slight wear on highest points only, with most original luster remaining. Friction may be visible on Liberty's knee and breast, and on the eagle's head and wing tips, but details remain sharp throughout.
Mint State (MS-60 to MS-65): No trace of wear. Grade distinctions are based on quality of strike, presence of contact marks, and eye appeal. MS-65 specimens show strong luster, minimal marks, and exceptional eye appeal.
Understanding strike characteristics versus actual wear
Strike Quality vs. Wear
Some 1849 quarters, particularly from the New Orleans Mint, are known for having weak strikes in certain areas such as the stars or parts of the eagle. This is a manufacturing characteristic from the original striking process and should not be confused with circulation wear. A weak strike will show incomplete detail but the surface will have cartwheel luster (if uncirculated) or the typical flow lines of a struck coin. Circulation wear, by contrast, creates smooth, flattened surfaces where the metal has been polished away through handling.
Identifying Problem Coins
Coins with problems trade at substantial discounts and receive "Details" grades from certification services. Common issues include:
- Cleaning: Harsh cleaning creates unnaturally bright, lifeless surfaces. Under magnification, fine parallel scratches (hairlines) indicate improper wiping. More aggressive "whizzing" uses rotary tools to move surface metal, creating deceptive but non-original luster.
- Corrosion: Environmental damage creates pitting or green verdigris, particularly on improperly stored silver coins.
- Damage: Dents, scratches, edge bumps, or tooling marks significantly reduce value.
Authentication: Protecting Your Investment
Authentication: genuine coins show sharp details and proper metallurgy versus cast fakes
Given the high value of the 1849-O (reaching $40,000 in top grades) and the extreme rarity of the 1849 Proof, authentication is paramount. Counterfeits of rare Seated Liberty coinage are known to exist, and collectors must exercise caution. The American Numismatic Association provides extensive resources on counterfeit detection.
Physical Specifications: A genuine 1849 quarter should weigh approximately 6.68 grams and have a diameter of 24.3 mm. Significant deviations from these standards are a primary warning sign. Use a precision scale and caliper to verify specifications.
Metallurgical Content: The coin should be composed of 90% silver and 10% copper. Non-destructive analysis using an XRF scanner can verify this without damaging the coin. Known counterfeits have been found with incorrect metal composition—for example, a fake 1869-S quarter analyzed at 60% copper and 37% zinc rather than the proper silver alloy.
Surface Characteristics: Authentic struck coins have sharp details and often exhibit flow lines radiating from the center. Counterfeits made from casting molds may have a porous, "pimply" surface texture, a soft or soapy appearance, and lack of fine detail. The seam from the casting mold may also be visible on the edge. Under magnification, genuine coins show sharp, well-defined features, while cast fakes show rounded, mushy details.
Mint Mark Analysis (1849-O): Counterfeiters frequently alter common Philadelphia coins by adding an "O" mint mark. The mint mark should be examined under magnification for tool marks, an unnatural seam around its perimeter, or discoloration indicating added metal. The style, shape, and position of the mint mark must match those on confirmed genuine specimens. Any irregularity warrants professional authentication.
Professional Certification: Due to the substantial financial risk, any prospective purchase of an 1849-O or 1849 Proof should be limited to coins certified by leading third-party grading services such as PCGS or NGC. These services authenticate coins and encapsulate them in tamper-evident holders, providing peace of mind for buyers. For the Philadelphia issue, certification is advisable for grades above Extremely Fine.
Preservation and Long-Term Care
Detection of cleaning: hairline scratches and unnatural brightness indicate problems
Proper storage and handling are crucial for maintaining the condition and value of your 1849 Seated Liberty Quarter. Environmental damage, improper storage materials, and careless handling can cause irreversible harm that significantly reduces a coin's value.
Storage Materials: Store coins in holders made of inert, archival-quality materials. Acceptable options include Mylar flips (2x2 holders), hard plastic capsules, or the certified slabs used by PCGS and NGC. Avoid any soft, flexible plastic holders, as many contain polyvinyl chloride (PVC), which can leach onto the coin's surface over time. PVC contamination creates a green, sticky residue that damages the silver surface and is difficult to remove without further harming the coin.
Environmental Control: Store coins in a cool, dry environment with stable temperature and low humidity. Fluctuating conditions can cause toning, corrosion, and other environmental damage. A safe deposit box or home safe provides security while maintaining stable conditions. Avoid storage in basements, attics, or areas prone to temperature swings or moisture.
Handling Protocol: Always handle coins by their edges, never touching the obverse or reverse surfaces. Oils and acids from human skin can leave permanent fingerprints on silver surfaces. For valuable specimens, wear cotton gloves when handling. Never attempt to clean a coin—cleaning almost always reduces value, even if done carefully. Original, unmolested surfaces are highly prized by collectors and command premium prices.
Documentation: Maintain records of your acquisition including purchase price, date, seller information, and any certification numbers. Take high-quality photographs for insurance purposes and to document the coin's condition over time. This documentation proves invaluable for insurance claims and establishes provenance when selling.
1849 Quarter Mint Errors and Their Values
While no major mint errors are specifically documented for the 1849 quarter in specialist literature, errors from this era are known to exist and can be highly valuable. The value of an error is typically the base numismatic value of the coin in its grade plus a premium that depends on the error's type, severity, and visual appeal. An error on the common 1849-P would be of interest and carry a premium; the same error on the key-date 1849-O would create an important and likely very valuable rarity.
Strike Errors
These errors occur during the striking process when the planchet is improperly positioned or the dies malfunction.
Off-Center Strikes: The coin is improperly centered between the dies, leaving a portion of the planchet blank. The degree of off-centering determines value—minor shifts (5-10%) add modest premiums, while dramatic off-center strikes (20-50%) are highly sought after. A Seated Liberty Quarter struck 20% off-center in VG-10 condition was listed for $1,869. The date and some design elements must remain visible for the error to command significant value.
Double Strikes: The coin receives two or more impressions from the dies, often with the planchet rotating between strikes. This creates overlapping images and is one of the most dramatic and valuable error types. A spectacular double-struck 1891 Seated Quarter in MS-62 sold for an impressive $31,200(Heritage, 2020), illustrating the high value of major, visually striking errors.
Die Errors
These result from damaged, cracked, or failing dies used in production.
Die Cracks and Cuds: A die crack appears as a raised, irregular line on the finished coin, representing a crack in the die steel. A cud is a larger blob of raised metal that forms when a piece of the die breaks away entirely, leaving that portion of the die face blank. Die cracks are relatively common in 19th-century coinage and typically add a modest premium of 10-30% unless they are exceptionally large or bisect a key design element like the date or Liberty's head. Major cuds command higher premiums, particularly if they affect significant portions of the design.
Planchet Errors
These involve defects in the blank disc of metal before it is struck into a coin.
Clipped Planchets: The planchet is incomplete due to improper punching from the metal strip, resulting in a crescent-shaped clip (straight clips also exist). The size of the clip determines the premium, with larger clips being more valuable. Clips that remove the date or significant design elements are generally worth less than those that leave the coin identifiable.
Lamination: A piece of the coin's surface flakes or peels away due to impurities or gas bubbles in the metal alloy. The extent and location of the lamination affect value. Lamination errors that don't obscure the date or major design elements typically add 25-100% premiums, depending on severity and visual appeal.
Recent Auction Results and Market Trends
Auction records provide valuable insight into current market conditions and realistic values for 1849 Seated Liberty Quarters. The results below represent recent sales from major auction houses and demonstrate the strong demand for these coins across all grades and mint marks.
1849 Philadelphia Business Strikes: Lower-grade circulated examples trade in the hundreds of dollars. An NGC VF sold for $182.40 in March 2023, demonstrating steady collector demand for problem-free circulated coins. Near-uncirculated examples command four-figure sums, with a PCGS AU-55 realizing $750 in June 2019. In mint state, values escalate sharply. A PCGS MS-63 brought $1,116.25 in January 2015, while gem specimens approach five figures—a PCGS MS-65 achieved $11,162.50 in August 2015.
1849-O New Orleans Key Dates: Even heavily worn examples command substantial premiums. A PCGS G-4 realized $1,075, and an NGC G-4 sold for $1,500 in January 2023. Mid-grade specimens show the key date premium clearly, with a PCGS VF-35 bringing $3,120 in February 2018 and a PCGS EF-40 selling for $3,480 in December 2020. Near-uncirculated examples reach five figures: an NGC AU-50 achieved $7,850 in September 2014, and a PCGS AU-58 sold for $14,100 in January 2016. The rare mint state pieces command premium prices, with an NGC MS-62 realizing $17,037.50 in April 2016 and the finest known NGC MS-64 bringing $24,675 in May 2015.
1849 Proof Strikes: With only three to five examples known, each auction appearance is a significant numismatic event. Results show considerable variation based on specific coin quality and market conditions at the time of sale. Recent prices range from $28,200 (PCGS PR-65, June 2015) to $47,000 (PCGS PR-65, July 2013 and PCGS PR-66, May 2015). An NGC PR-66 sold for $31,725 in April 2013, and a PCGS PR-66 brought $39,950 in August 2015.
All auction results cited from NGC Coin Explorer and PCGS CoinFacts auction archives.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is my 1849 quarter worth?
Value depends on mint mark, strike type, and condition. A Philadelphia business strike ranges from $45 (G-4) to $15,000 (MS-65). The key date 1849-O ranges from $2,000 (G-4) to $40,000 (MS-64). The rare 1849 Proof commands $28,200 to $47,000.
How do I identify the mint mark on my 1849 quarter?
Check the reverse below the eagle's talons and above the denomination "QUAR. DOL." Philadelphia coins have no mint mark. New Orleans coins display a prominent "O" in this location. The 1849-O is a major key date worth substantially more than the Philadelphia issue.
What makes the 1849-O quarter so valuable?
The 1849-O is extremely rare with only approximately 16,000 minted (contrary to erroneous database listings of 412,000). Only about 450 examples survive across all grades, with just five graded in mint state. This scarcity creates a forty-fold premium over the Philadelphia issue even in low grades.
Should I get my 1849 quarter professionally graded?
For the 1849-O or 1849 Proof, professional certification by PCGS or NGC is essential due to counterfeiting concerns and high values. For the Philadelphia issue, certification is advisable for grades above Extremely Fine (EF-40) where the value justifies the grading fee.
What is the silver melt value of an 1849 quarter?
Each 1849 quarter contains 0.1933 troy ounces of silver. At current silver prices (~$48.89/oz as of October 2025), the melt value is approximately $9.45. However, the numismatic value far exceeds this intrinsic value for all dates and grades.
How can I tell if my 1849-O quarter is genuine?
Verify the weight (6.68g) and diameter (24.3mm). Check that the "O" mint mark appears genuine without tool marks or discoloration. Examine surface characteristics—genuine coins show sharp details and flow lines, while cast fakes have porous surfaces and mushy details. Due to high values, purchase only certified examples from reputable dealers.
What are the key wear points on a Seated Liberty quarter?
On the obverse, check Liberty's knee, right breast, and hair. On the reverse, examine the eagle's head, neck, claws, and wing edges. These areas show wear first and are critical for accurate grading. The shield on Liberty's left arm and the word LIBERTY are also important condition indicators.
Should I clean my 1849 quarter to make it more valuable?
Never clean a coin. Cleaning reduces value significantly, even if done carefully. Original, unmolested surfaces are highly prized by collectors and command premium prices. Professional conservation should only be performed by experts at major grading services if absolutely necessary.
Are there any valuable die varieties for 1849 quarters?
The 1849-O is identified as Briggs 1-A (a single die marriage). While minor variations in obverse dies and date positions exist for 1849 quarters, these are of interest primarily to advanced specialists and do not command significant premiums. Value is determined by mint mark and grade rather than die varieties.
How should I store my 1849 Seated Liberty Quarter?
Use holders made of inert materials such as Mylar flips or hard plastic capsules. Avoid soft PVC-containing plastics which damage silver surfaces. Store in a cool, dry environment with stable temperature and humidity. Handle coins by edges only, never touching surfaces. Never attempt cleaning.
Valuation Methodology and Sources
This comprehensive guide synthesizes data from multiple authoritative sources to provide accurate, current valuations for 1849 Seated Liberty Quarters. Price information is derived from PCGS CoinFacts and the NGC Coin Explorer, the two leading third-party grading services. Auction data comes from verified sales by major auction houses including Heritage Auctions, with prices realized representing actual market transactions. Population data is from NGC's October 2025 census reports.
Historical and technical information draws from specialist research including the work of Larry Briggs (die variety attribution), Walter Breen (mintage analysis), and institutional resources from the American Numismatic Association. Authentication protocols reference ANA counterfeit detection resources and expert numismatic analysis. Grading standards follow NGC grading guidelines specific to the Seated Liberty quarter series.
Silver melt values are calculated using current spot prices from APMEX and the coin's documented silver content (0.1933 troy ounces ASW). All monetary values are expressed in U.S. dollars and reflect market conditions as of October 2025.
⚠️ Market Fluctuation Disclaimer
Coin values fluctuate based on market conditions, precious metal prices, collector demand, and individual coin characteristics such as eye appeal and provenance. Values presented represent general market ranges and actual prices realized may vary. For the most current valuations, consult recent auction results and price guides from PCGS and NGC. Rare issues such as the 1849-O and 1849 Proof require expert evaluation for accurate appraisal.
