1862 Seated Liberty Quarter Value Guide (Updated 2025)
Discover 1862 Seated Liberty Quarter values from $30 to $50,000. Complete price guide for Philadelphia, San Francisco, and Proof strikes with expert grading tips.
The 1862 Seated Liberty Quarter is worth $30 to $50,000 depending on mint and condition.
- 1862 Philadelphia (circulated): $30 – $550
- 1862 Philadelphia (uncirculated): $875 – $27,500
- 1862-S San Francisco (key date): $250 – $50,000
- 1862 Proof strikes: $925 – $44,820+
The San Francisco mint mark transforms this Civil War-era coin from a common date into a major numismatic rarity commanding exponential premiums.
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1862 Seated Liberty Quarter: Civil War Coinage
The 1862 Seated Liberty Quarter features Christian Gobrecht's design with no motto on reverse
The 1862 Seated Liberty Quarter represents a fascinating intersection of American history and numismatics, struck during the second year of the Civil War. This quarter exists in three distinct forms: the common Philadelphia business strike (932,000 mintage), the rare San Francisco issue (67,000 mintage), and scarce Proof strikes (550 mintage). Values range dramatically from $30 for a circulated Philadelphia coin to $50,000 for a top-grade San Francisco example.
What makes this year particularly compelling is its stark market dichotomy. The Philadelphia coin offers accessible Civil War history for modest budgets, while the 1862-S ranks among the key dates of the entire Seated Liberty series. Despite its "common date" reputation, PCGS estimates only 1,600 examples of the Philadelphia issue survive in all grades, with just 250 in Mint State—revealing a coin far scarcer than its market position suggests.
This guide provides comprehensive valuations for all 1862 issues, expert grading diagnostics, authentication tips for detecting added mint marks, and preservation strategies for maintaining these 90% silver treasures. Whether you're building a type set, pursuing a date-and-mintmark collection, or seeking a tangible piece of Civil War heritage, understanding the 1862 quarter's nuances is essential.
Identifying Your 1862 Seated Liberty Quarter
Proper identification of an 1862 quarter requires understanding its design type and mint mark location. All 1862 quarters belong to the Seated Liberty, Type 2 (No Motto) design used from 1840 to 1865. This type features Liberty with drapery from her left elbow—a detail added in 1840 that distinguishes it from earlier issues. The defining characteristic of this type is the absence of the motto "IN GOD WE TRUST" on the reverse, which wasn't added until 1866 following the Civil War.
The 'S' mint mark appears below the eagle, above the denomination
Obverse Design
The obverse features a full-length figure of Liberty seated on a rock, facing left. Her right hand supports a pole topped with a Phrygian cap (a classical symbol of freedom), while her left hand rests on a Union shield inscribed with the word LIBERTY. Thirteen stars encircle the figure, representing the original colonies, with the date 1862 positioned below. The presence of drapery flowing from Liberty's left elbow to her knee is a critical diagnostic feature of this design type.
Reverse Design
The reverse depicts a heraldic eagle with outstretched wings, clutching an olive branch (symbolizing peace) in its right talon and a bundle of arrows (representing military readiness) in its left. A Union shield is superimposed on the eagle's breast. The legend UNITED STATES OF AMERICA appears in an arc above the eagle, while the denomination QUAR. DOL. (Quarter Dollar) is positioned below.
Mint Mark Location
The mint of origin is determined by the presence or absence of a mint mark on the reverse, positioned centrally below the eagle and above the denomination "QUAR. DOL." Philadelphia Mint coins carry no mint mark, while San Francisco Mint coins feature a prominent 'S' mint mark in this location. Because an added 'S' mint mark can transform a $30 coin into a potential $50,000 rarity, verifying mint mark authenticity is paramount. Genuine 'S' mint marks should show consistent style, size, and placement with no evidence of tooling or disturbed metal around the letter.
1862 Seated Liberty Quarter Values by Grade and Mint
The market for 1862 quarters reflects a dramatic value spread across its three issues. The Philadelphia business strike serves as an affordable entry point for type collectors and Civil War enthusiasts, while the San Francisco issue ranks among the premier rarities of the Seated Liberty series. Proof strikes represent a specialized market where surface quality and contrast designations drive exponential premiums.
Wear progression from heavily circulated to uncirculated condition
1862 Philadelphia Mint (No Mint Mark) – Business Strike
The Philadelphia issue represents the common date for the year, though population data reveals it to be considerably scarcer than its reputation suggests. With PCGS estimating only 1,600 survivors in all grades (250 in Mint State, 30 in Gem), the 1862-P may be undervalued relative to other "common dates" with higher mintages. The following valuations synthesize PCGS and NGC price guides with recent auction results.
| Grade | PCGS Guide (Oct 2025) | NGC Guide (Oct 2025) | Recent Auction Results |
|---|---|---|---|
| G-4 | $30 | $35 | — |
| VF-20 | $75 | $75 | — |
| EF-40 | $175 | $150 | — |
| AU-50 | $325 | $300 | $204 (NGC Details, Heritage, Feb 2023) |
| AU-58 | $550 | $550 | $504 (PCGS, Heritage, Feb 2023) |
| MS-62 | $875 | $825 | $660 (NGC, Heritage, Jan 2023) |
| MS-63 | $1,100 | $1,000 | $780 (PCGS, Stack's Bowers, Nov 2023) |
| MS-64 | $1,500 | $1,750 | $1,170 (PCGS, Stack's Bowers, Jan 2022) |
| MS-65 | $4,500 | $4,500 | $2,820 (PCGS, Heritage, Jul 2017) |
| MS-66 | $6,250 | $6,000 | $3,995 (NGC, Heritage, Oct 2015) |
| MS-67 | $27,500 | $27,500 | $25,850 (PCGS, Heritage, Jun 2014) |
1862-S San Francisco Mint – Business Strike (Key Date)
The 1862-S quarter stands as a celebrated key-date rarity with a low mintage of just 67,000 pieces. The vast majority saw extensive circulation, and many surviving examples have been cleaned or damaged, making problem-free, original coins particularly prized. The market exhibits an exponential price curve as grade increases—a hallmark of true numismatic rarity where available supply dwindles dramatically in higher preservation states. With the finest known examples graded MS-64, any Mint State 1862-S represents a condition census coin of the highest order.
| Grade | PCGS Guide (Oct 2025) | NGC Guide (Jan 2023) | Recent Auction Results |
|---|---|---|---|
| G-4 | $250 | $300 | — |
| VG-8 | $375 | $450 | $240 (PCGS, Stack's Bowers, Mar 2023) |
| F-12 | $550 | $650 | — |
| VF-20 | $750 | $1,000 | $630 (PCGS, Heritage, Apr 2023) |
| EF-40 | $1,750 | $1,875 | — |
| AU-50 | $3,250 | $2,350 | $1,800 (NGC, Heritage, Jun 2022) |
| AU-58 | $5,000 | $4,500 | $3,525 (PCGS, Heritage, Oct 2014) |
| MS-62 | $8,750 | $7,000 | $7,637.50 (PCGS, Heritage, Dec 2011) |
| MS-63 | $12,500 | $9,500 | $7,050 (PCGS, Heritage, Nov 2014) |
| MS-64 | $50,000 | $47,500 | $44,062.50 (PCGS, Heritage, Jun 2014) |
1862 Philadelphia Mint – Proof Strike
Proof coins are special strikings manufactured with polished dies and planchets, intended for collectors rather than circulation. The 1862 Proof quarter had an original mintage of 550 pieces, though Walter Breen's research indicates unsold examples were later melted. PCGS estimates approximately 400 survive in all grades, with only 50 qualifying as Gem (PR-65 or better).
Cameo designations dramatically increase proof values; Deep Cameo examples are exceptionally rare
Beyond numerical grade, the primary value determinant for 19th-century Proofs is the degree of contrast between devices and fields. Coins exhibiting strong frosted texture on devices against deeply mirrored fields receive "Cameo" (CAM) or "Deep Cameo" (DCAM) designations. These contrasts indicate early die state strikes and command substantial premiums over standard "Brilliant" Proofs. The market for an 1862 Proof quarter is effectively three distinct markets: standard Proofs, Cameo examples, and the rarest Deep Cameo specimens.
| Grade | Standard Proof Value | Cameo/DCAM Notes |
|---|---|---|
| PR-62 | $925 | Premiums for CAM/DCAM significant but vary widely |
| PR-63 | $1,400 | Recent offering: $1,794.95 for standard PR-63 |
| PR-64 | $1,900 | Auction results range $1,840–$4,080; CAM commands higher |
| PR-65 | $4,600 | PR-65 CAM would likely exceed $10,000 |
| PR-66 | $9,250 | PR-66 DCAM known to exist; valued substantially higher |
| PR-67 | ~$15,000+ | PR-67 CAM: $11,500 (Heritage, 2008) |
| PR-68 | N/A | PR-68 CAM offered at $44,820 |
How to Grade 1862 Seated Liberty Quarters
Accurate grading of Seated Liberty quarters requires understanding key wear points and the ability to distinguish between circulation wear and strike weakness—a common characteristic of this series. The condition of specific design elements, particularly the word LIBERTY on the shield, serves as the primary diagnostic for assigning circulated grades.
Liberty's knee, breast, and hair show wear first; eagle's head and wings are key reverse points
Key Wear Points
On the obverse, wear first appears on the highest points of the design: Liberty's left knee, her right breast, and the hair just above her ear. These areas lose detail earliest as the coin circulates. On the reverse, examine the eagle's head and neck, as well as the upper edges of its wings. These are the most vulnerable areas and show smoothing and loss of feather definition with increasing wear.
LIBERTY shield diagnostics: letters disappear as coin wears from Fine to Good
LIBERTY Shield Diagnostic
The visibility of letters in the word LIBERTY on the shield provides the most reliable circulated grade indicator. In Good (G-4), the letters are completely worn away, though the outline of the shield remains visible. By Fine (F-12), at least two to four letters should be discernible, though they may be weak or partial. In Very Fine (VF-20), expect four to six letters to be visible. By Extremely Fine (EF-40), all seven letters should be present, though the word may show slight weakness.
About Uncirculated and Mint State
In About Uncirculated (AU-50 to AU-58) grades, the coin shows only the slightest wear on the absolute highest points—Liberty's knee may have a small rub, and the eagle's head might show minor friction. However, most of the original mint luster remains visible in protected areas around design elements. The transition from AU-58 to Mint State (MS-60+) occurs when no circulation wear is present anywhere on the coin, though contact marks from bag handling are expected and acceptable.
Strike Weakness vs. Wear
Seated Liberty coinage is notorious for strike weakness even on uncirculated examples. Common weak areas include Liberty's head, her forward foot, and the eagle's claws. An uncirculated coin may have a flatly struck head but will still exhibit vibrant cartwheel luster in protected areas. A circulated coin, even if well-struck, shows a smoothing of high-point details and disruption of luster from handling. When examining an 1862 quarter with weak details, tilt the coin under a light source—if rotating luster is present, the weakness is from strike, not wear.
Wear progression from heavily circulated to uncirculated condition
Mint State Grading Distinctions
Within Mint State, grades from MS-60 to MS-67 are assigned based on the number, size, and placement of contact marks, as well as the coin's strike quality, luster, and eye appeal. MS-60 to MS-62 coins show numerous contact marks, including some in prime focal areas. MS-63 to MS-64 examples have fewer marks, with MS-64 coins displaying particularly good eye appeal and strong luster. MS-65 and higher coins are Gems with minimal marks visible to the naked eye, exceptional luster, and superior strike quality. For the 1862 Philadelphia issue, MS-67 represents the finest known grade, while the 1862-S tops out at MS-64.
Mint Errors on 1862 Seated Liberty Quarters
While no prominent, recurring, or cataloged error varieties exist specifically for 1862 quarters, individual error coins from this manufacturing period do surface. The value of such pieces depends heavily on the error type, its severity, and visual appeal. Unlike cataloged die varieties with established premiums, error coins are unique and their market values vary significantly.
Die cracks, clashed dies, and off-center strikes occasionally appear on 1862 quarters
Off-Center Strikes
Off-center strikes occur when the planchet is not properly seated between the dies during striking. A minor off-center strike (5-10% off) might add a premium of $50 to $150 to the coin's base value, depending on grade. A dramatic strike showing 50% or more off-center while retaining a full, legible date becomes significantly more desirable and could command $500 or more. The more dramatic the misalignment while maintaining date visibility, the higher the collector appeal.
Die Cracks and Cuds
As dies age and develop stress fractures, these cracks transfer to struck coins as raised, irregular lines across the surface. Minor die cracks are common throughout the Seated Liberty series and typically add no premium. However, a major die break—especially one at the rim resulting in a raised blob of metal known as a "cud"—is much scarcer and can add $100 to $300 depending on size and visual impact. The larger and more prominent the cud, the higher the potential value.
Clashed Dies
Die clashing occurs when obverse and reverse dies strike each other directly without a planchet between them. This transfers a partial impression of each die's design onto the other. Faint die clashes are relatively common in 19th-century coinage and carry no premium. A strong, clear clash—where, for example, the outline of the eagle is distinctly visible on the obverse behind Liberty—is more desirable and could add $75 to $200 to the coin's value. The clarity and prominence of the clash marks directly correlate to collector interest.
Repunched Dates
While no major repunched date (RPD) variety is cataloged for 1862, minor repunching of individual digits was common practice in this era. If the repunching is minor and requires significant magnification to observe, it adds no measurable value. However, a bold, clearly visible repunched digit that can be seen with the naked eye could command a premium of 20% to 50% over the normal coin's value. Documentation and photography of the repunching are essential for establishing authenticity and market value.
Authentication and Counterfeit Detection
Authentication of 19th-century silver coins requires methodical examination of physical specifications and mint mark characteristics. For the 1862 quarter, the primary counterfeiting concern is the addition of an 'S' mint mark to a common Philadelphia coin to create a fraudulent rarity.
Genuine 'S' mint marks show consistent style, size, and placement; look for tooling marks around suspect mint marks
A genuine 1862 quarter should weigh approximately 6.22 grams with a diameter of 24.3 millimeters. Significant deviations from these specifications may indicate a counterfeit or altered coin. The reeded edge should be sharp, uniform, and consistent, without signs of filing, tooling, or re-edging. Any irregularity in edge reeding warrants further scrutiny.
For coins purporting to be 1862-S issues, careful examination of the mint mark is critical. A suspect 'S' mint mark should be scrutinized under 10x magnification and compared to high-resolution reference images of certified, genuine examples from PCGS CoinFacts or NGC Coin Explorer. The style, size, shape, and placement of the 'S' must match known genuine examples precisely. Look for signs of added metal, tooling marks, or disturbed surfaces around the mint mark area. Genuine mint marks are punched into the die before striking and appear as an integral part of the coin's surface. Added mint marks often show slight raised edges around the letter or a different texture than the surrounding field.
For coins representing significant value—particularly any 1862-S or high-grade 1862 Philadelphia examples—professional third-party grading by PCGS or NGC is strongly recommended. The cost of certification ($30-$100 depending on service level) is minimal compared to the financial protection it provides. Certified coins come in tamper-evident holders with unique serial numbers, guaranteeing authenticity and grade.
Additional red flags include unnatural color or toning (especially uniform bright appearance suggesting cleaning), weight discrepancies, incorrect edge type, and prices that seem too good to be true. If purchasing raw (uncertified) high-value examples, insist on a return privilege and consider having the coin authenticated before finalizing the purchase.
Preservation and Storage Best Practices
Long-term preservation is essential for maintaining both the physical condition and market value of 1862 Seated Liberty Quarters. Silver coinage is particularly susceptible to environmental damage, including toning, spotting, and corrosion if not stored properly.
Always handle coins by their edges to avoid transferring skin oils, perspiration, and microscopic contaminants to the coin's surfaces. Even brief contact with fingers can leave residues that cause spotting or discoloration over time. The use of clean, lint-free cotton gloves is highly recommended when examining uncertified coins. For certified coins in PCGS or NGC holders, the protective slab eliminates the need for direct handling.
The ideal storage environment maintains consistent conditions with temperature between 60°F and 70°F and relative humidity below 50%. These parameters inhibit the chemical reactions that cause toning and corrosion. Avoid storage areas with temperature fluctuations, high humidity (basements, attics), or exposure to sunlight. Climate-controlled interior spaces provide the best long-term environment.
For certified coins, the professional grading service holder provides excellent protection and requires no additional storage materials. For uncertified ("raw") coins, use holders made from inert, archival-quality materials. High-quality acrylic capsules or holders made of Mylar are safe choices that don't react with silver. Avoid soft plastic flips containing PVC (polyvinyl chloride) and acidic paper envelopes—these materials leach chemicals over time and cause irreversible green spotting or surface damage known as "PVC damage."
Never attempt to clean an 1862 quarter. Cleaning, polishing, or using chemical dips destroys original surfaces, creates unnatural appearance, and dramatically reduces collector value. Problem-free, original surfaces—even if darkly toned—are always preferable to cleaned coins. If you suspect environmental damage or improper prior storage, consult a professional numismatist before taking any action.
Recent Auction Results (2022-2024)
Auction results provide valuable market insight beyond static price guide values, particularly for rare issues like the 1862-S. The following results represent actual realized prices (hammer price plus buyer's premium) from major numismatic auctions between 2022 and 2024.
1862 Philadelphia Business Strikes:
- MS-63 (PCGS): $780 (Stack's Bowers, November 2023)
- MS-63 (PCGS): $840 (Heritage, April 2023)
- MS-62 (NGC): $660 (Heritage, January 2023)
- AU-58 (PCGS): $504 (Heritage, February 2023)
- AU-50 (NGC Details): $204 (Heritage, February 2023)
- MS-64 (PCGS): $1,170 (Stack's Bowers, January 2022)
1862-S San Francisco Business Strikes:
- VF-20 (PCGS): $630 (Heritage, April 2023)
- VG-8 (PCGS): $240 (Stack's Bowers, March 2023)
- AU-50 (NGC): $1,800 (Heritage, June 2022)
These results demonstrate that actual market prices for common-date Philadelphia examples typically fall below published price guide values, particularly in mid-range Mint State grades (MS-62 to MS-64). This suggests potential buying opportunities for collectors who can locate problem-free examples at auction. For the rare 1862-S, auction prices show more consistency with price guides, though condition rarities in AU and Mint State grades often exceed guide values when multiple serious collectors compete for the same coin.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is my 1862 Seated Liberty Quarter worth?
Value depends critically on mint mark and condition. An 1862 Philadelphia (no mint mark) ranges from $30 in Good condition to $27,500 in MS-67. The rare 1862-S San Francisco issue commands $250 to $50,000. Proof strikes range from $925 to $44,820 depending on grade and Cameo designation. For accurate assessment, identify the mint mark location (or its absence) and compare your coin's condition to grading standards outlined in this guide.
How do I identify the mint mark on an 1862 quarter?
Look on the reverse side, centrally positioned below the eagle and above the denomination "QUAR. DOL." Philadelphia Mint coins have no mint mark in this space. San Francisco coins display a prominent 'S' mint mark. The mint mark location and style are consistent for all 1862 issues. If examining a potential 1862-S, verify the 'S' is original and not added, as this alteration is the primary counterfeiting concern for this date.
Why is the 1862-S quarter so much more valuable?
The 1862-S is a key-date rarity due to its low mintage of only 67,000 pieces—approximately 7% of the Philadelphia mintage. Most examples saw heavy circulation, and many survivors have been cleaned or damaged. Problem-free, original examples are scarce at all grade levels, with Mint State specimens representing condition census rarities. The exponential price curve from circulated to uncirculated grades reflects genuine scarcity, not artificial market manipulation.
Should I get my 1862 quarter professionally graded?
For any 1862-S issue regardless of condition, or for 1862 Philadelphia coins grading AU-50 or higher, professional certification by PCGS or NGC is strongly recommended. The grading fee ($30-$100) is minimal compared to the coin's value and provides authentication, accurate grade assignment, and protection in a tamper-evident holder. For heavily worn Philadelphia examples (Good through Fine), certification is optional unless you plan to sell and want to maximize buyer confidence.
What causes weak strikes on Seated Liberty quarters?
Strike weakness results from insufficient striking pressure, worn dies, or improper die alignment during minting. Common weak areas include Liberty's head, her forward foot, and the eagle's claws. This is a manufacturing characteristic, not circulation wear. Weak strike does not disqualify a coin from Mint State grades if no actual wear is present, though it may impact eye appeal and value within the same numerical grade. When examining details, always check for rotating luster—if present, apparent weakness is from strike, not wear.
How should I store my 1862 silver quarter?
Store in a cool, dry environment (60-70°F, below 50% humidity) away from temperature fluctuations and sunlight. For certified coins, the professional holder provides adequate protection. For raw coins, use inert holders like acrylic capsules or Mylar flips. Avoid PVC-containing plastic and acidic paper envelopes, which cause chemical damage. Handle only by edges, never touch surfaces with bare fingers. Never attempt cleaning—original surfaces, even if toned, are always preferable to cleaned coins.
What are Cameo and Deep Cameo designations on Proofs?
Cameo (CAM) and Deep Cameo (DCAM) designations describe the contrast between frosted devices and mirrored fields on Proof strikes. These surface qualities indicate early die state strikes before polishing wore down. CAM proofs show strong contrast, while DCAM examples exhibit exceptionally sharp, white frosted devices against jet-black fields. These designations command substantial premiums—sometimes double or triple the value of standard "Brilliant" Proofs in the same numerical grade. For the 1862 Proof quarter, DCAM examples are particularly rare and highly sought.
Are there any valuable die varieties for 1862 quarters?
No major, cataloged die varieties exist for 1862 or 1862-S quarters according to authoritative sources including PCGS CoinFacts and NGC VarietyPlus. While the entire 1862-S mintage was struck using two obverse dies paired with a single reverse die (also used for some 1861-S coins), this information is relevant for die-state studies but does not create a value premium in the general market. Collectors pursue 1862 quarters by date, mint, and strike type only, without variety designations.
How can I tell if an 1862-S mint mark has been added?
Examine the 'S' mint mark under 10x magnification, comparing to certified reference images. Look for inconsistent style, size, or placement compared to genuine examples. Check for tooling marks, file marks, or disturbed metal around the mint mark area. Genuine mint marks appear as an integral part of the coin's surface with consistent patina. Added mint marks often show slightly raised edges, different surface texture, or metal displacement around the letter. When in doubt, submit to PCGS or NGC for authentication—this is essential for any 1862-S representing significant value.
What is the metal value of an 1862 quarter?
With 90% silver composition and weight of 6.22 grams (0.1800 troy ounces of pure silver), the melt value is approximately $8.82 based on silver spot price of $49.02 per troy ounce. However, even the lowest-grade collectible 1862 quarter (G-4 Philadelphia) retails for $30—nearly three times melt value. The numismatic premium far exceeds intrinsic metal value for all 1862 issues, confirming these are collected as historical artifacts, not bullion.
Pricing Methodology & Market Disclaimer
This value guide synthesizes data from multiple authoritative numismatic sources to provide comprehensive market valuations for 1862 Seated Liberty Quarters. Primary sources include the PCGS CoinFacts Price Guide (October 2025), NGC Coin Explorer Price Guide (October 2025), and documented auction results from Heritage Auctions, Stack's Bowers Galleries, and GreatCollections spanning 2022-2024. Historical context and specifications are drawn from Seated Liberty Quarters reference materials, scholarly numismatic databases, and certified population reports.
All prices represent approximate retail values for problem-free, accurately graded examples. Actual market values fluctuate based on current collector demand, availability, economic conditions, and precious metals prices. Coins with problems (cleaning, damage, environmental issues) trade at substantial discounts. Authentication and grading by PCGS or NGC provide the most reliable value benchmarks. This guide is intended for educational purposes and should not be construed as a guarantee of value or an offer to buy or sell. Collectors should consult multiple current sources and consider professional appraisal for significant acquisitions or sales.
