Price Guide for 1837 Quarter Variants
This guide presents price ranges for variants from three sources: eBay sales, third-party auctions, and PCGS guides. Values are shown for various conditions, allowing collectors to compare across different market segments. Price estimates may vary between sources, especially for rarer variants.
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $2.10 – $1,840.00Uncirculated: $660.00 – $117,500.00
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eBayCirculated: $45.00 – $1,500.00Uncirculated: $2,695.00 – $2,810.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $65.00 – $2,250.00Uncirculated: $2,500.00 – $125,000.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $20,700.00 – $132,250.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $109.00 – $1,495.00Uncirculated: $6,462.50 – $28,200.00
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eBayCirculated: $85.00 – $122.53
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $300.00 – $3,500.00Uncirculated: $7,500.00 – $35,000.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $282,000.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $200,000.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $69.00 – $2,013.00Uncirculated: $826.03 – $31,200.00
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eBayCirculated: $113.00 – $5,300.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $65.00 – $2,250.00Uncirculated: $2,500.00 – $55,000.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $106.00 – $1,320.00Uncirculated: $738.00 – $152,750.00
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eBayUncirculated: $1,145.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $65.00 – $2,250.00Uncirculated: $2,500.00 – $125,000.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $604.00 – $660.00Uncirculated: $4,935.00 – $14,375.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $80.00 – $2,500.00Uncirculated: $2,750.00 – $40,000.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $111.00 – $1,380.00Uncirculated: $1,668.00 – $11,162.50
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eBayCirculated: $65.00 – $211.50
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $65.00 – $2,250.00Uncirculated: $2,500.00 – $55,000.00
Design and Specifications of the 1837 Quarter
The 1837 Quarter marked the debut of the Seated Liberty design, which would continue until 1891. This new design, created by Christian Gobrecht, represented a significant shift from the previous Capped Bust design. The Seated Liberty motif symbolized the concept of liberty and was inspired by the British figure of Britannia.
1837 was a transitional year for U.S. coinage, with the introduction of new designs for several denominations. The quarter’s redesign was part of a broader effort to modernize and standardize American coinage.
| Weight | 6.68 grams |
|---|---|
| Diameter | 24.3 mm |
| Mint Marks | None (Philadelphia only) |
| Composition | 90% silver, 10% copper |
| Obverse Design | Seated Liberty, designed by Christian Gobrecht |
| Reverse Design | Eagle with shield, designed by Christian Gobrecht |
Rarity Factors and Value Drivers
The condition of the 1837 Quarter significantly impacts its value. As a first-year issue and a coin from the early 19th century, high-grade specimens are particularly scarce and valuable. Coins in Mint State (MS) condition are extremely rare and highly sought after by collectors.
The quality of strike can vary, with some coins showing weakness in certain areas, particularly on Liberty’s head and the eagle’s talons. Well-struck examples command a premium. Original luster is highly prized, and coins with attractive, natural toning are especially desirable to collectors.
Mintage: 252,400
Rarity Scale: Scarce
Circulation Status: Limited Circulation
Preservation Rarity: Very rare in grades MS65 and above
Varieties Errors: Large Date and Small Date varieties
Market Demand: High, due to first-year status and historical significance
The 1837 Quarter’s value is enhanced by several factors:
1. First-year issue: As the inaugural year of the Seated Liberty design, it holds special historical significance.
2. Date varieties: The Large Date and Small Date varieties add collecting complexity and can affect value.
3. Low mintage: With only 252,400 minted, it’s relatively scarce compared to later years.
4. Historical context: The coin was minted during a significant economic period, just before the Panic of 1837, adding to its historical interest.
5. Type set demand: As a one-year type coin (no stars on obverse), it’s crucial for type set collectors, increasing demand.
