The Standing Liberty Quarter is a U.S. coin that holds significant historical and numismatic value. Here are the key details about this iconic coin:
Key Facts
- Designer: Hermon Atkins MacNeil
- Minted: 1916-1930
- Composition: 90% Silver, 10% Copper
- Diameter: 24.3 mm
- Weight: 6.25 grams
Design Features
- Obverse:
- Features the image of Lady Liberty standing in a gateway, holding an olive branch in her right hand and a shield in her left.
- The word “LIBERTY” appears above her, and the date is below.
- Type 1 (1916-1917): Liberty’s right breast is exposed.
- Type 2 (1917-1930): A chain mail covering was added to Liberty’s torso.
- Reverse:
- Features an eagle in flight surrounded by 13 stars.
- The words “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” and “E PLURIBUS UNUM” are inscribed around the edge, with the denomination “QUARTER DOLLAR” below.
Types and Varieties
- Type 1 (1916-1917):
- Liberty’s breast is bare.
- Mintage was very low in 1916, making these coins particularly rare and valuable.
- Type 2 (1917-1930):
- Liberty’s breast is covered with chain mail.
- Small design modifications were made, including the addition of three stars under the eagle on the reverse in 1925.
Collecting and Value
- 1916 Issue: The 1916 Standing Liberty Quarter is one of the rarest and most sought-after, with a mintage of only 52,000. In high grades, it can command prices in the tens of thousands of dollars.
- Common Dates: Later dates are more common, but high-grade examples and those with full head details (sharp details on Liberty’s head) are particularly prized by collectors.
- Key Dates: Besides the 1916, other key dates include the 1917 Type 1, the 1921 (a low mintage year), and the 1923-S.
Grading
- Full Head Designation: A coin with full head details is more valuable. This designation indicates that the coin was well-struck, with all details of Liberty’s helmet and face visible.
- Condition: As with all coins, the condition greatly affects value. Coins are graded on a scale from Poor (P-1) to Perfect Uncirculated (MS-70). Coins with minimal wear and good strike are more desirable.
Notable Facts
- Historical Context: The Standing Liberty Quarter was introduced during a time when the U.S. Mint was looking to modernize coin designs. MacNeil’s design aimed to symbolize liberty and peace.
- Controversy: The initial design with Liberty’s exposed breast caused public controversy, leading to the redesign in mid-1917.
The Standing Liberty Quarter is a remarkable piece of American numismatic history. Its beautiful design and the historical context of its creation make it a favorite among collectors. High-grade examples and key dates are particularly valuable, and the coin remains a beloved artifact of early 20th-century America.
