Price Guide for 1874 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: $29.00 – $1,035.00Uncirculated: $4.00 – $19,550.00
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eBayCirculated: $15.50 – $757.22Uncirculated: $324.30 – $1,250.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $30.00 – $1,050.00Uncirculated: $1,100.00 – $20,000.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $480.00 – $833.00Uncirculated: $3.75 – $34,500.00
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eBayCirculated: $420.00Uncirculated: $523.13 – $3,700.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $600.00 – $850.00Uncirculated: $900.00 – $40,000.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $3.00 – $2,160.00Uncirculated: $5.00 – $29,900.00
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eBayCirculated: $15.00 – $795.00Uncirculated: $610.00 – $3,250.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $30.00 – $1,050.00Uncirculated: $1,100.00 – $20,000.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $1,006.00 – $24,000.00
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eBayUncirculated: $3,850.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $1,500.00 – $35,000.00
Design and Specifications of the 1874 Quarter
The 1874 Quarter is part of the Seated Liberty series, which was minted from 1838 to 1891. This design, featuring Lady Liberty seated on a rock, was a significant departure from earlier coin designs and represented American ideals of liberty and freedom. The year 1874 saw production at three mints, reflecting the expansion of the United States and the need for coinage in the western territories.
| Weight | 6.22 grams |
|---|---|
| Diameter | 24.3 mm |
| Mint Marks | Philadelphia (no mint mark), Carson City (CC), San Francisco (S) |
| 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 1874 Quarters significantly impacts their value. Coins in higher grades (MS60+) are considerably rarer and more valuable due to the limited mintage and circulation wear. The Carson City (CC) mint issues are particularly desirable in high grades due to their lower mintage and historical significance.
Strike quality is crucial, as many 1874 Quarters suffer from weak strikes, especially on the eagle’s left leg and claws. Coins with full strike details command premium prices. Original luster and absence of cleaning or other damage greatly enhance value.
Mintage: 218,200
Rarity Scale: Scarce
Circulation Status: Limited Circulation
Preservation Rarity: Rare in grades MS65 and above
Varieties Errors: None significant
Market Demand: Moderate, higher for well-preserved specimens
Mintage: 115,000
Rarity Scale: Rare
Circulation Status: Limited Circulation
Preservation Rarity: Very rare in grades MS65 and above
Varieties Errors: None significant
Market Demand: High, especially for well-preserved examples
Mintage: 392,000
Rarity Scale: Scarce
Circulation Status: Moderate Circulation
Preservation Rarity: Rare in grades MS65 and above
Varieties Errors: None significant
Market Demand: Moderate, higher for well-preserved specimens
Mint marks play a significant role in the value of 1874 Quarters. The Carson City (CC) issues are the most valuable due to their low mintage and the mint’s historical importance in the Old West. Toning can also affect value, with attractively toned specimens often commanding premiums.
For all mint locations, prooflike surfaces on business strikes can significantly increase value. The Philadelphia mint also produced proof versions with a mintage of 700, which are highly prized by collectors. Any die varieties or errors, while not common for this year, could potentially add substantial value to a coin.
