Price Guide for 1869 Quarter Variants
This guide presents price ranges for 1869 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.
1869 Quarter (Regular Strike)
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $89.00 - $2,900.00Uncirculated: $276.00 - $80,500.00
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eBayCirculated: $212.50 - $1,295.00Uncirculated: $3,045.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $400.00 - $3,350.00Uncirculated: $3,500.00 - $60,000.00
1869-S Quarter (Regular Strike)
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $1.25 - $4,025.00Uncirculated: $1,495.00 - $21,850.00
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eBayCirculated: $20.59 - $2,375.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $150.00 - $5,500.00Uncirculated: $6,500.00 - $40,000.00
1869 Quarter, CAM (Proof)
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $600.00 - $18,800.00
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eBayUncirculated: $1,050.00 - $2,799.99
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $750.00 - $12,500.00
1869 Quarter (Proof)
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $253.00 - $480.00Uncirculated: $3.25 - $7,050.00
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eBayCirculated: $620.57Uncirculated: $500.00 - $4,694.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $350.00 - $600.00Uncirculated: $650.00 - $9,000.00
Design and Specifications of the 1869 Quarter
The 1869 Seated Liberty Quarter is part of the long-running Seated Liberty series, which began in 1838 and continued until 1891. This coin was minted during the post-Civil War Reconstruction era, a time of significant economic and social change in the United States. The Seated Liberty design, featuring Lady Liberty seated on a rock, symbolized the stability and strength of the nation during this tumultuous period.
| Weight | 6.22 grams |
|---|---|
| Diameter | 24.3 mm |
| Mint Marks | Philadelphia (no mint mark), San Francisco (S) |
| 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
The condition of 1869 quarters has a significant impact on their value. Due to their low mintage and age, high-grade specimens are extremely rare and highly sought after by collectors. Coins in Uncirculated condition (MS60 and above) command substantial premiums.
Strike quality is particularly important for this issue, as many examples may show weakness in certain areas. Coins with full, sharp details are especially desirable. Original luster is also a key factor, with coins retaining their original mint luster being more valuable. Toning can add to the value if it's attractive and natural.
Mintage: 16,000
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 key date status
Mintage: 76,000
Rarity Scale: Rare
Circulation Status: Limited Circulation
Preservation Rarity: Very rare in grades MS65 and above
Varieties Errors: None widely recognized
Market Demand: High, especially for well-preserved specimens
The 1869 quarter is considered a key date for both Philadelphia and San Francisco issues, making them highly desirable to collectors trying to complete Seated Liberty quarter sets. The extremely low mintage, particularly for the Philadelphia issue, adds significantly to their value and collector appeal.
Historical significance of the Reconstruction era can also play a role in the coin's desirability. Additionally, the preservation of original surfaces without cleaning or other damage is crucial for maximizing value, as collectors prefer coins in original, unaltered condition.
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