1917 Standing Liberty Quarter

The 1917 Standing Liberty Quarter is more than just a coin; it’s a piece of art that captures the essence of its time, embodying historical and aesthetic qualities that intrigue collectors and investors alike. In this in-depth article, we will explore the various aspects of this fascinating coin, helping you understand its true value both as a collector’s item and as a potential investment.

Grading the 1917 Standing Liberty Quarter

Grading a coin like the 1917 Standing Liberty Quarter involves evaluating its condition paying close attention to details such as wear, scratches, and mint errors. Professional grading services like the Numismatic Guaranty Corporation (NGC) and Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) use a scale that ranges from “Poor” (almost no details visible) to “Mint State” (no signs of wear and tear).

For the 1917 Standing Liberty Quarter, a “Fine” grade means moderate wear, while an “Extra Fine” grade suggests slight wear but finer details still visible. In “Mint State,” the coin shows no signs of circulation, presenting as if it were just minted.

Grading is crucial for pricing and investment. A higher grade often translates to a higher market value. It also helps collectors differentiate between coins that may look similar but have different grades based on subtle details that only a trained eye could spot.

Pricing the 1917 Standing Liberty Quarter

The 1917 Standing Liberty Quarter can command various prices depending on its grade, rarity, and demand among collectors. At the lower end, coins in “Good” condition may fetch around $15-20, while “Fine” examples can go for approximately $40-50. In higher grades like “Extra Fine” or “Mint State,” these coins can command prices upwards of $100 to $500 or more.

However, special varieties or minting errors can significantly increase a coin’s value. For example, a Type 1 1917 Standing Liberty Quarter in Mint State condition with Full Head details can reach prices upwards of $1,000 or more at auction.

Mintage

The 1917 Standing Liberty Quarter is known for its relatively high mintage, making it more accessible to collectors than some other years. The United States Mint produced the coin in the Philadelphia and San Francisco facilities. Approximately 13.5 million quarters were minted in Philadelphia and about 1.9 million in San Francisco. Finding coins in superior grades can still be challenging despite the relatively high mintage.

Minted Place

This coin was minted in two main facilities: Philadelphia and San Francisco. While the Philadelphia Mint did not use a mint mark, the San Francisco Mint used the “S” mint mark just below the eagle on the reverse side. Knowing the mint place is crucial for collectors as it adds another layer of differentiation and potential value to the coin.

Designer

The 1917 Standing Liberty Quarter designer was Hermon Atkins MacNeil, a prominent American sculptor. MacNeil’s design was chosen as part of a broader initiative to beautify American coinage. His rendition of Lady Liberty is elegant and powerful, symbolizing the nation’s ideals and aspirations during the era.

Metal Composition, Diameter, Weight

The 1917 Standing Liberty Quarter features a 90% silver and 10% copper composition. It has a diameter of 24.3 mm and weighs approximately 6.25 grams. These specifications have made it not just a collector’s item but also a valuable source of silver bullion.

How Much Silver is in a 1917 Quarter?

Considering the coin’s 90% silver composition and a weight of 6.25 grams, the total amount of silver in a 1917 Standing Liberty Quarter is approximately 5.625 grams or about 0.181 troy ounces. At current silver prices, the intrinsic value from the silver content alone is worth noting for investors.

What is the Difference Between Type 1 and Type 2 Standing Liberty Quarters?

The 1917 Standing Liberty Quarter is special because it features Type 1 and Type 2. The primary difference lies in the design of Lady Liberty. In Type 1, Liberty is shown with an exposed breast, whereas Type 2 features a chainmail vest covering her upper body.

Type 1 was produced in early 1917, and it became a subject of controversy due to its exposed design. This led to the modified Type 2 design. Both types were minted in 1917, making this year unique in the series. Collectors often seek both types to complete their collection, which adds to the coin’s desirability and value.

The 1917 Standing Liberty Quarter is more than just a piece of history. Its intricate design, high silver content, and unique varieties make it valuable for collectors and investors. Its relatively high mintage may make it accessible, but finding a superior-grade coin can be challenging and rewarding. Whether you’re a seasoned numismatist or a new collector, this coin is worth your time and investment.

Silver remains the second-most popular precious metal for commodity investing, both in the United States and internationally. Since many silver bars and coins qualify for Self-Directed IRA inclusion, investors can protect their portfolio while staving off the IRS, too.

You can own real, physical silver bullion and store it in a tax-advantaged retirement vehicle. American Bullion can discuss your options and help you every step of the way. Our goal is to help you take control of your own finances, and we promise to be transparent, safe, and efficient in the process.