Price Guide for 1849 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: $2.75 – $1,980.00Uncirculated: $7.00 – $13,200.00
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eBayCirculated: $50.00 – $666.00Uncirculated: $374.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $25.00 – $1,100.00Uncirculated: $1,250.00 – $15,000.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $8.75 – $14,100.00Uncirculated: $115.00 – $24,675.00
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eBayCirculated: $46.20 – $5,555.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $1,000.00 – $22,500.00Uncirculated: $25,000.00 – $42,500.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $9,775.00 – $71,500.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $20,000.00 – $52,500.00
Design and Specifications of the 1849 Quarter
The 1849 Quarter is part of the Seated Liberty series, which was minted from 1838 to 1891. This year is significant as it falls during the California Gold Rush, a period that greatly impacted the American economy and coinage. The Seated Liberty design, featuring Lady Liberty seated on a rock, was a departure from earlier designs and became iconic in American numismatics.
Weight | 6.68 grams |
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Diameter | 24.3 mm |
Mint Marks | New Orleans (O), Philadelphia (no mint mark) |
Composition | 90% silver, 10% copper |
Obverse Design | Seated Liberty, designed by Christian Gobrecht |
Reverse Design | Heraldic eagle, designed by Christian Gobrecht |
Rarity Factors and Value Drivers
The condition of 1849 Quarters significantly impacts their value. Due to their age and circulation, high-grade examples are extremely rare. Coins in Mint State (MS) condition are highly sought after and command substantial premiums.
Strike quality is particularly important for this issue, as weak strikes are common, especially for New Orleans minted coins. Luster and original surfaces are highly prized in uncirculated examples. Toning can add to the value if it’s attractive and natural.
Mintage: 340,000
Rarity Scale: Scarce
Circulation Status: Limited Circulation
Preservation Rarity: Rare in grades MS65 and above
Varieties Errors: None significant
Market Demand: High, especially for well-preserved specimens
Mintage: 412,000
Rarity Scale: Scarce
Circulation Status: Limited Circulation
Preservation Rarity: Very rare in grades MS65 and above
Varieties Errors: None significant
Market Demand: High, particularly for high-grade examples
Mintmark plays a role in value, with New Orleans (O) mint coins generally commanding a premium over Philadelphia issues due to lower survival rates in high grades. The historical significance of the California Gold Rush era adds to the coin’s appeal.
Die varieties, while not as prominent as in some other years, can add interest for specialized collectors. The overall scarcity of 1849 Quarters in all grades makes them desirable to both type collectors and series specialists.