Price Guide for 1861 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: $22.00 – $1,035.00Uncirculated: $2.50 – $22,800.00
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eBayCirculated: $20.11 – $433.00Uncirculated: $102.50 – $3,451.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $25.00 – $550.00Uncirculated: $575.00 – $50,000.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $6.00 – $32,200.00Uncirculated: $493.50
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eBayCirculated: $139.00 – $3,657.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $400.00 – $40,000.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $276.00 – $374.00Uncirculated: $3.00 – $17,250.00
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eBayCirculated: $72.00Uncirculated: $457.00 – $677.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $650.00 – $750.00Uncirculated: $1,000.00 – $10,000.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $1,323.00 – $188,000.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $7,500.00 – $175,000.00
Design and Specifications of the 1861 Quarter
The 1861 Quarter was minted during the first year of the American Civil War, a pivotal moment in U.S. history. The Seated Liberty design, which had been in use since 1838, continued to be produced during this tumultuous period. This coin represents a significant era of American coinage, as it was one of the last years before the introduction of the motto ‘In God We Trust’ on quarters in 1866.
| Weight | 6.22 grams |
|---|---|
| Diameter | 24.3 mm |
| Mint Marks | Philadelphia (no mint mark), New Orleans (O), San Francisco (S) |
| 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
Condition plays a crucial role in determining the value of 1861 Quarters. Coins in higher grades, particularly those in Mint State (MS) condition, command significant premiums. The presence of original luster and absence of wear on high points like Liberty’s knee and breast are key factors.
For circulated examples, the clarity of design details, especially the shield lines and eagle’s feathers, greatly influences value. Coins with attractive natural toning can also see increased demand among collectors.
Mintage: 4,854,600
Rarity Scale: Common
Circulation Status: Widely Circulated
Preservation Rarity: Scarce in grades MS65 and above
Varieties Errors: None significant
Market Demand: Moderate, as a Civil War era coin
Mintage: 2,532,633
Rarity Scale: Uncommon
Circulation Status: Moderate Circulation
Preservation Rarity: Rare in grades MS65 and above
Varieties Errors: None significant
Market Demand: High, due to Civil War connection and New Orleans mint
Mintage: 96,000
Rarity Scale: Rare
Circulation Status: Limited Circulation
Preservation Rarity: Very rare in grades MS65 and above
Varieties Errors: None significant
Market Demand: High, due to low mintage and Civil War era status
Historical significance as a Civil War era coin adds to the appeal and value of 1861 Quarters. The San Francisco mint issue, with its low mintage, is particularly sought after in all grades.
Strike quality can vary, especially for New Orleans mint coins, with well-struck examples commanding premiums. Die state varieties, while not major, can interest advanced collectors. The preservation of mint luster and absence of cleaning or other damage are crucial for maximizing value in higher grades.
