1853-1859 Seated Liberty Quarter Dollar (No Motto)
United States Mint · Collectibles & Antiques > Coins & Paper Money
Era / Decade
1850s (specifically 1857 based on the visible date)
Material
90% Silver, 10% Copper. High-quality precious metal content with historical numismatic value.
Condition
Good to Very Good (G-VG). Significant circulation wear: Liberty's gown details are worn smooth, the shield is faint, and the rim shows many small nicks and dings. It appears to have a porous surface, which might suggest environmental damage or old cleaning.
Demand Level
Moderate to Strong. Standard 'Type' coins like this have a steady market among collectors building historical sets.
Resale Value
Estimated Resale Value
$25.00 (Low/Quick Sale) - $38.00 (Mid/Fair) - $52.00 (High/Retail)
Estimated Retail Value
$0.25 (Original Face Value) / ~$45.00 - $60.00 (Current Collector Market Price for VG grade)
Comparable Sales
Recent eBay sold listings for 1857 Quarters in G-VG condition range from $28.00 to $48.00 plus shipping. Slabbed (certified) versions in higher grades sell for significantly more.
Description
An authentic 1857 Seated Liberty Silver Quarter. This mid-19th-century coin features Lady Liberty seated on a rock, holding a staff with a Phrygian cap and a shield inscribed with 'LIBERTY'. The 1857 date is clearly visible. This is the 'No Motto' variety (prior to the addition of 'In God We Trust' in 1866). A great piece of American Civil War-era history.
Key Features
Pre-Civil War era coinage; 90% silver content; 'Seated Liberty' design by Christian Gobrecht; highly collectible for type set collectors; clear date.
Authenticity Indicators
Correct font style for date; denticles around the rim appear consistent with US Mint strikes of the era. Confidence: High (standard circulation strike).
Flaws to Note
Heavy circulation wear; numerous rim dings/nicks; slightly 'mushy' detail on the central figure; suspicious surface texture that may indicate the coin was once cleaned or buried.
Selling Guide
Where to Sell
eBay is the best platform for reaching the widest audience. For a local sale, a reputable coin shop (LCS) or a local numismatic show is recommended. Avoid 'We Buy Gold' kiosks as they will only offer melt value.
Selling Tips
Do NOT clean or polish the coin, as this destroys collector value. Use a macro lens for photography to show the date and rim clearly. Mention '90% Silver' and 'No Motto' in the title. Ship in a PVC-free coin flip and a padded mailer with tracking.