1918/7-S 25C Standing Liberty Quarter
The Standing Liberty Quarter was designed by Hermon A. MacNeil. The 1918/7-S variety was produced at the San Francisco Mint in a relatively low minting year. Coin collectors particularly treasure this overdate since it represents a rare instance of human error at the mint, compounded by the coin's age and the ravages of time that have seen many of the original coins lost or damaged. The total mintage for the regular 1918-S quarters was 11,072,000. However, the mintage specifically for the overdate is unknown but represented only a small fraction of this number, making it extremely rare in any condition today. As with many coins, those in higher grades are even more scarce and command a premium.
Numismatic Significance:
From a numismatic perspective, the 1918/7-S 25C is noteworthy for collectors due to the combination of its overdate and its status as a San Francisco-minted coin; the enduring allure lies in its documented history and the noticeable error that makes it stand out. Collectors ranging from novices to seasoned numismatists are drawn to such coins not only for their historical context but also for their rarity and investment potential.
Value and Sales:
The value of the 1918/7-S overdate varies significantly based on its condition. In lower grades, it still commands a substantial premium over its non-overdated counterparts. In mint-state grades, the coin is exceedingly valuable. Important auction houses have handled impressive examples of this overdate, with values reaching significant sums. For example, high-grade specimens have sold for thousands of dollars; MS63 to MS65 examples have traded hands for five figures, highlighting the combination of rarity and demand among collectors. Recent notable sales have evidenced the continuous high interest in this overdate variant. Collectors have shown willingness to bid aggressively at auctions, particularly for coins in exceptional condition and with a good strike. These sales have occurred in numismatic events and online auctions, facilitated by prominent auction houses known for dealing in rare coinage. According to PCGS CoinFacts, the catalog number for this overdate coin is PCGS #5726. As collectors seek investment pieces or strive to complete their Standing Liberty Quarter sets, this particular variant remains a covetable focal point. The allure of owning one of the few overdate examples of this coin ensures that it remains a highly prized asset in numismatic circles.
