Price Guide for 1850 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: $3.35 – $2,350.00Uncirculated: $7.50 – $38,187.50
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eBayCirculated: $134.81 – $1,136.00Uncirculated: $4,000.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $40.00 – $2,250.00Uncirculated: $2,500.00 – $40,000.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $1.80 – $3,500.00Uncirculated: $3.35 – $20,900.00
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eBayCirculated: $99.99 – $871.00Uncirculated: $963.90
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $50.00 – $2,750.00Uncirculated: $3,000.00 – $22,500.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $17,626.18 – $460,000.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $25,000.00 – $250,000.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $252.00 – $822.50Uncirculated: $2,232.50 – $9,300.00
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eBayCirculated: $725.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $1,000.00 – $1,500.00Uncirculated: $3,500.00
Design and Specifications of the 1850 Quarter
The 1850 Quarter was part of the Seated Liberty series, which began in 1838 and continued until 1891. This design, featuring Lady Liberty seated on a rock, was a significant departure from previous coin designs and reflected the Greek Revival movement popular in American art at the time.
1850 was a notable year as it marked the beginning of the California Gold Rush era, which would have a profound impact on American coinage and economy in the following years.
| Weight | 6.22 grams |
|---|---|
| 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 1850 quarters significantly impacts their value due to their age and scarcity. Uncirculated examples are extremely rare and highly sought after by collectors.
Strike quality is particularly important for this year, as many coins from this period suffered from weak strikes. Coins with full, sharp details command premium prices. Original luster is also highly prized, as many surviving specimens have been cleaned over the years.
Toning can add to the value if it’s attractive and natural. However, heavily circulated examples with wear on high points are more common and less valuable.
Mintage: 190,800
Rarity Scale: Scarce
Circulation Status: Limited Circulation
Preservation Rarity: Extremely 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: Moderate Circulation
Preservation Rarity: Very rare in grades MS65 and above
Varieties Errors: None significant
Market Demand: Moderate to High, depending on condition
Historical significance plays a role in the value of 1850 quarters. Their production coincided with the California Gold Rush, making them tangible links to a pivotal period in American history.
The low mintage numbers for both Philadelphia and New Orleans issues contribute to their scarcity and value. The Philadelphia issue, in particular, is considered a key date in the series due to its extremely low mintage.
Die varieties, while not as prominent as in some other years, can add interest and value for specialized collectors. Collectors should be aware of counterfeits, as the rarity and value of these coins make them targets for forgery.
