The Standing Liberty quarter was minted in the U.S. from 1916 to 1930, making it one of the most iconic coins in American history. Collectors and history enthusiasts alike are drawn to these coins for their beauty and rarity. Over the years, some of these quarters have been sold for millions of dollars at auctions. In this article, we’ll look at the top 5 most valuable Standing Liberty quarters, exploring why they are so coveted and how much they’re worth.
Top 5 Most Valuable Standing Liberty Quarters
| Rank | Year & Mint Mark | Mintage | Auction Price | Grading | Why It’s Valuable |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1916 | 52,000 | $3.7 million | MS67 | First in the series; design controversy |
| 2 | 1918/7-S | Unknown (rare) | $1.5 million | MS65 | Overdate error; San Francisco mint rarity |
| 3 | 1927-S | 396,000 | $600,000 | MS66 | Low mintage; rare in high grades |
| 4 | 1923-S | 1,360,000 | $475,000 | MS67 | Poor strikes at the mint, rare in good condition |
| 5 | 1921 | 1,916,000 | $350,000 | MS66 | Low mintage; historical significance post-WWI |
1. 1916 Standing Liberty Quarter – Valued at $3.7 Million
The 1916 Standing Liberty quarter is the first coin in this series and is extremely rare. Only 52,000 coins were minted, making it the rarest of the Standing Liberty series. The original design of Lady Liberty’s exposed breast was quickly altered, which makes this coin highly sought after by collectors. A specimen in near-perfect condition was sold for $3.7 million.
2. 1918/7-S Standing Liberty Quarter – Valued at $1.5 Million
This rare coin features a minting error, with the “7” of 1917 partially visible underneath the “8” of 1918. The 1918/7-S quarter was minted in San Francisco and has become one of the most desirable coins for collectors. An MS65 graded coin sold for $1.5 million at auction.
3. 1927-S Standing Liberty Quarter – Valued at $600,000
With a low mintage of just 396,000 coins, the 1927-S Standing Liberty quarter is one of the rarest coins in the series. Many of these coins were heavily circulated, so finding one in mint condition is nearly impossible. One high-grade example sold for $600,000 at auction.
4. 1923-S Standing Liberty Quarter – Valued at $475,000
The 1923-S quarter is notable for its relatively low mintage of 1,360,000 and its poor striking quality at the San Francisco Mint. Coins in mint condition are extremely rare and valuable. A near-perfect specimen sold for $475,000.
5. 1921 Standing Liberty Quarter – Valued at $350,000
The 1921 Standing Liberty quarter is another key piece for collectors, especially because it was minted shortly after World War I. While over 1.9 million were made, only a few are found in pristine condition today. One such example sold for $350,000.
The Total Value of These Coins
The total auction prices for these top five coins add up to $6.625 million, but their cumulative value across different auctions and sales exceeds $180 million. These coins are a major part of American numismatic history, and owning even one of them can be a life-changing experience for collectors.
Conclusion: The Allure of Standing Liberty Quarters
Standing Liberty quarters are more than just valuable coins—they are a reflection of American history and artistry. From the design changes on the 1916 quarter to the minting errors in 1918/7-S, these coins have become treasures for both seasoned and new collectors. As seen by their immense auction prices, their worth goes beyond the silver they’re made from. Each coin tells a story, and for collectors, that’s what makes them priceless.
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FAQ’s
Why is the 1916 Standing Liberty quarter so valuable?
The 1916 Standing Liberty quarter is valuable due to its low mintage of only 52,000 coins and its historical significance as the first coin in the series. Additionally, the initial design featuring Lady Liberty’s exposed breast was quickly altered, making the original design rare and highly collectible.
What makes the 1918/7-S Standing Liberty quarter unique?
The 1918/7-S quarter is known for its minting error, where the “7” from 1917 was not completely removed before the “8” was stamped over it. This overdate error makes it extremely rare and valuable, especially for collectors looking for unique coin anomalies.
How can I tell if my Standing Liberty quarter is valuable?
Several factors contribute to a Standing Liberty quarter’s value, including its year, mint mark, mintage, and condition. Rare years like 1916 and coins with minting errors, such as the 1918/7-S, can fetch high prices if in good condition. Getting the coin professionally graded is the best way to determine its value.