Price Guide for 1866 Quarter Variants
This guide presents price ranges for 1866 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.
1866 Quarter Motto (Regular Strike)
-
3rd Party PriceCirculated: $426.00 - $3,450.00Uncirculated: $4.25 - $18,000.00
-
eBayCirculated: $499.99 - $1,330.00Uncirculated: $218.50 - $2,995.00
-
PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $500.00 - $4,250.00Uncirculated: $4,500.00 - $32,500.00
1866-S Quarter (Regular Strike)
-
3rd Party PriceCirculated: $1.25 - $5,828.00Uncirculated: $2,990.00 - $97,750.00
-
eBayCirculated: $886.22 - $1,800.00
-
PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $450.00 - $6,000.00Uncirculated: $7,500.00 - $125,000.00
1866 Quarter Motto, CAM (Proof)
-
3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $764.00 - $26,400.00
-
eBayUncirculated: $1,869.00
-
PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $750.00 - $40,000.00
1866 Quarter Motto, DCAM (Proof)
-
3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $1,840.00 - $12,925.00
-
eBayUncirculated: $3,250.00
-
PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $1,500.00 - $20,000.00
1866 Quarter Motto (Proof)
-
3rd Party PriceCirculated: $432.00Uncirculated: $3.15 - $21,150.00
-
eBayCirculated: $350.00 - $950.00Uncirculated: $599.99 - $1,700.00
-
PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $475.00 - $600.00Uncirculated: $650.00 - $12,500.00
Design and Specifications of the 1866 Quarter
The 1866 Quarter is part of the Seated Liberty series, which was minted from 1838 to 1891. This year is significant as it marks the first year of production after the Civil War, during a period of economic recovery. The coin features the motto 'In God We Trust' on the reverse, which was added to the design in 1866 following a rise in religious sentiment after the war.
| Weight | 6.22 grams |
|---|---|
| Diameter | 24.3 mm |
| Mint Marks | S (San Francisco) |
| Composition | 90% silver, 10% copper |
| Obverse Design | Seated Liberty, designed by Christian Gobrecht |
| Reverse Design | Eagle with shield, designed by Christian Gobrecht |
Rarity Factors and Value Drivers
Condition is crucial for the 1866-S Quarter. Due to its low mintage and age, finding high-grade examples is extremely challenging. Coins in AU (About Uncirculated) condition or better are highly prized by collectors and can command significant premiums.
The strike quality can vary, with some coins showing weakness in certain areas. Well-struck examples with full details are especially desirable. Original luster is a key factor, with coins retaining cartwheel luster being particularly valuable. Natural toning, if present, can enhance the coin's appeal and value.
Mintage: 28,000
Rarity Scale: Very Rare
Circulation Status: Limited Circulation
Preservation Rarity: Extremely rare in grades MS65 and above
Varieties Errors: None widely recognized
Market Demand: High, due to low mintage and historical significance
Historical significance plays a major role in the 1866-S Quarter's value. As the first year of the 'In God We Trust' motto and a low-mintage issue from the post-Civil War era, it holds special appeal for collectors of American history.
The San Francisco mint mark adds to its desirability, as Western coinage from this period is often sought after. The extreme rarity in high grades means that even small differences in condition can result in substantial price differences. Any provenance linking the coin to notable collections or historical events could further enhance its value.
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
