Introduced in 1838, Christian Gobrecht’s iconic Liberty Seated design made its debut on the quarter dollar, reflecting the stylistic shift seen across all U.S. silver denominations of the period. The obverse features Miss Liberty seated on a rock, grasping a liberty cap atop a pole in her ... Read More
Introduced in 1838, Christian Gobrecht’s iconic Liberty Seated design made its debut on the quarter dollar, reflecting the stylistic shift seen across all U.S. silver denominations of the period. The obverse features Miss Liberty seated on a rock, grasping a liberty cap atop a pole in her left hand and a shield inscribed LIBERTY in her right, symbolizing America’s dedication to freedom and defense. Surrounding her image are thirteen stars, representing the original colonies, with the date prominently below.
The reverse retains a traditional heraldic eagle design but updates it with a heavier, more compact eagle motif and a shorter neck and body. The denomination is now expressed as QUAR. DOL. rather than the earlier 25 C. Notably, there is no motto above the eagle — a characteristic of early Liberty Seated coinage.
Key Characteristics:
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No Drapery at Liberty's elbow on early issues (1838–early 1840s)
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Produced continuously from 1838 to early 1853, resumed from 1856 through 1865
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Arrows at Date varieties appear for 1853 (later discussed separately)
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Proofs were first officially distributed starting in 1858
Collectibility: While there are numerous rarities in this series — notably the 1849-O, 1851-O, 1852-O, and 1853 No Arrows quarters, as well as scarce San Francisco issues like the 1859-S, 1860-S, and 1864-S — type collectors will find no shortage of more common dates. Liberty Seated quarters from this era are generally scarcer than their half dime, dime, and half dollar counterparts.
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Grades from Good to Extremely Fine are obtainable with moderate effort.
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AU and Uncirculated examples are more elusive but can be secured with patience and a willingness to pay premium prices.
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Proof issues, beginning in 1858, offer an additional layer of collectibility and prestige for advanced collections.
The Liberty Seated No Motto Quarter series offers tremendous historical charm, design appeal, and a range of opportunities for both beginning and seasoned numismatists.
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