Price Guide for 1865 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: $57.00 – $1,469.00Uncirculated: $5.00 – $48,875.00
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eBayCirculated: $161.50 – $875.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $85.00 – $1,600.00Uncirculated: $1,750.00 – $50,000.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $1.10 – $4,313.00Uncirculated: $1,093.00 – $64,625.00
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eBayCirculated: $282.00 – $1,391.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $200.00 – $6,500.00Uncirculated: $7,500.00 – $100,000.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $403.00 – $900.00Uncirculated: $3.00 – $23,500.00
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eBayCirculated: $585.59Uncirculated: $563.77 – $1,066.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $450.00 – $750.00Uncirculated: $1,000.00 – $40,000.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $776.00 – $58,750.00
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eBayUncirculated: $1,107.00 – $3,375.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $1,250.00 – $65,000.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $2,070.00 – $64,625.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $3,000.00 – $75,000.00
Design and Specifications of the 1865 Quarter
The 1865 Seated Liberty Quarter was minted during a pivotal year in American history, marking the end of the Civil War. This coin represents a significant period of transition and recovery for the nation. The Seated Liberty design, which had been in use since 1838, continued to symbolize the enduring values of liberty and unity during this tumultuous time.
| Weight | 6.22 grams |
|---|---|
| Diameter | 24.3 mm |
| Mint Marks | S (San Francisco) |
| 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 an 1865-S Quarter. Due to its low mintage and age, finding high-grade examples is extremely challenging. Coins in uncirculated condition (MS60 or better) are highly prized by collectors and can command significant premiums.
The strike quality of 1865-S Quarters can vary, with many examples showing weakness in certain areas. Coins with strong, full strikes are particularly desirable. Original luster is another important factor, with coins retaining their mint luster being more valuable. Natural toning, if attractive, can also enhance the coin’s appeal and value.
Mintage: 41,000
Rarity Scale: Rare
Circulation Status: Limited Circulation
Preservation Rarity: Extremely rare in grades MS65 and above
Varieties Errors: None widely recognized
Market Demand: High, especially for well-preserved specimens
Historical significance adds to the value of the 1865-S Quarter. As a coin minted at the end of the Civil War, it holds special interest for collectors of both coins and Civil War memorabilia.
The low mintage of only 41,000 pieces makes this a key date in the Seated Liberty Quarter series. This scarcity, combined with the coin’s age and historical context, drives strong demand among collectors.
San Francisco mint marks from this period are generally more sought after than those from other mints, further enhancing the coin’s desirability. The survival rate for high-grade examples is extremely low, making well-preserved specimens particularly valuable.
