Price Guide for 1861 Quarter Variants
This guide presents price ranges for 1861 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.
1861 Quarter (Regular Strike)
-
3rd Party PriceCirculated: $22.00 - $1,035.00Uncirculated: $2.50 - $22,800.00
-
eBayCirculated: $20.11 - $433.00Uncirculated: $102.50 - $3,451.00
-
PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $25.00 - $550.00Uncirculated: $575.00 - $50,000.00
1861-S Quarter (Regular Strike)
-
3rd Party PriceCirculated: $6.00 - $32,200.00Uncirculated: $493.50
-
eBayCirculated: $139.00 - $3,657.00
-
PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $400.00 - $40,000.00
1861 Quarter, CAM (Proof)
-
3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $1,323.00 - $188,000.00
-
PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $7,500.00 - $175,000.00
1861 Quarter (Proof)
-
3rd Party PriceCirculated: $276.00 - $374.00Uncirculated: $3.00 - $17,250.00
-
eBayCirculated: $72.00Uncirculated: $457.00 - $677.00
-
PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $650.00 - $750.00Uncirculated: $1,000.00 - $10,000.00
Design and Specifications of the 1861 Quarter
The 1861 Quarter was minted during the first year of the American Civil War, a pivotal moment in U.S. history. The Seated Liberty design, which had been in use since 1838, continued to be produced during this tumultuous period. This coin represents a significant era of American coinage, as it was one of the last years before the introduction of the motto 'In God We Trust' on quarters in 1866.
Weight | 6.22 grams |
---|---|
Diameter | 24.3 mm |
Mint Marks | Philadelphia (no mint mark), New Orleans (O), San Francisco (S) |
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 determining the value of 1861 Quarters. Coins in higher grades, particularly those in Mint State (MS) condition, command significant premiums. The presence of original luster and absence of wear on high points like Liberty's knee and breast are key factors.
For circulated examples, the clarity of design details, especially the shield lines and eagle's feathers, greatly influences value. Coins with attractive natural toning can also see increased demand among collectors.
Mintage: 4,854,600
Rarity Scale: Common
Circulation Status: Widely Circulated
Preservation Rarity: Scarce in grades MS65 and above
Varieties Errors: None significant
Market Demand: Moderate, as a Civil War era coin
Mintage: 2,532,633
Rarity Scale: Uncommon
Circulation Status: Moderate Circulation
Preservation Rarity: Rare in grades MS65 and above
Varieties Errors: None significant
Market Demand: High, due to Civil War connection and New Orleans mint
Mintage: 96,000
Rarity Scale: Rare
Circulation Status: Limited Circulation
Preservation Rarity: Very rare in grades MS65 and above
Varieties Errors: None significant
Market Demand: High, due to low mintage and Civil War era status
Historical significance as a Civil War era coin adds to the appeal and value of 1861 Quarters. The San Francisco mint issue, with its low mintage, is particularly sought after in all grades.
Strike quality can vary, especially for New Orleans mint coins, with well-struck examples commanding premiums. Die state varieties, while not major, can interest advanced collectors. The preservation of mint luster and absence of cleaning or other damage are crucial for maximizing value in higher grades.
Helpful Resources
Explore these valuable resources to enhance your coin collecting knowledge
Coin Value Checker
Free US coin value lookup with real-world market prices
Coin Analysis Tool
Identify, value, grade, and authenticate your coins instantly
Auction Records Tool
Access comprehensive US coin auction data
Quarter & Penny Value Guides
Find detailed value guides for both modern and classic quarters and pennies
2024 Quarter Values
Mint Marks, Proofs & Rare Prices
2022 Quarter Value Guide
Mint Marks, Proofs & Rare Prices
2023 Quarter Values
Complete Value Guide & Price Chart
Post-2000 Quarter Values
50 Most Valuable Modern Quarters
Post-1965 Quarter Values
50 Most Valuable Quarters Guide
60s & 70s Penny Values
Top 50 Most Valuable Finds
Error Coin Guides
Discover comprehensive guides about rare minting errors and valuable mistakes
2024 Quarter Error Guide
In Cod We Trust, Doubled Dies & Values
2023 Quarter Error Guide
Die Breaks, Cuds, and Rare Minting Errors
2022 Quarter Error Analysis
Die Breaks, Cuds & Clash Marks
2021 P&D Quarter Errors
Crown Die Chip, Crossing Delaware Errors
Bessie Coleman Quarter Errors
IN COD WE TRUST, Die Chip Values
Bicentennial Quarter Errors
Wrong Planchet, Off-Center & Die Cracks
Essential Coin Collecting Guides
Access comprehensive resources for identifying, grading, and selling your coins
Coin Designation Guide
Comprehensive Guide To Grading, Errors, Mint Marks, And Certification Terms
Selling Coins Guide
The Ultimate Guide to Selling Coins: Maximizing Your Returns
Key Date U.S. Coins
A Chronological Checklist for Collectors
Coin Value Guide
Expert Methods to Identify, Grade, and Sell Your Numismatic Treasures
U.S. Mint Marks Guide
Complete History of American Coin Mint Marks (1793-Present)
Coin Condition & Grading
Ultimate Guide: Sheldon Scale Explained with Photos
US Coin Specifications
Explore detailed physical characteristics and specifications for all US coin denominations
US Coin Weight Guide
Complete US Coin Weight Guide: Measure Penny, Quarter, Nickel & Dime Weight in Grams
US Coin Metal Composition
What Are Pennies, Nickels, Dimes, Quarters, Half Dollars & Dollars Made Of
US Coin Size Guide
Complete Penny, Nickel, Dime, Quarter, Half Dollar & Dollar Diameter Chart
US Coin Thickness Chart
Penny, Nickel, Dime, Quarter, Half Dollar & Dollar Dimensions
Who is on US Coins?
Penny, Nickel, Dime, Quarter, Half Dollar & Dollar Portraits
Complete Specifications
Comprehensive guide to all US coin measurements and specifications