Price Guide for 1880 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: $49.00 – $1,265.00Uncirculated: $3.25 – $21,150.00
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eBayCirculated: $178.00 – $750.00Uncirculated: $70.00 – $1,675.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $125.00 – $950.00Uncirculated: $1,000.00 – $25,000.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $201.00 – $1,380.00Uncirculated: $1.75 – $28,200.00
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eBayCirculated: $428.23Uncirculated: $420.00 – $2,650.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $325.00 – $600.00Uncirculated: $650.00 – $32,500.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $1,227.60 – $10,408.00
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eBayUncirculated: $1,176.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $1,750.00 – $10,000.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $431.00 – $25,300.00
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eBayUncirculated: $660.00 – $2,840.49
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $750.00 – $65,000.00
Design and Specifications of the 1880 Quarter
The 1880 Quarter was part of the Seated Liberty series, which had been in production since 1838. This year saw a very low mintage, making it a significant year for collectors. The coin reflects the classical design aesthetics of the mid-19th century, featuring Lady Liberty seated on a rock on the obverse and an eagle with a shield on the reverse.
Weight | 6.25 grams |
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Diameter | 24.3 mm |
Mint Marks | P (no mint mark), 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 1880 Quarters has a dramatic impact on their value. Due to the extremely low mintage and age, high-grade specimens are exceptionally rare. Coins in Uncirculated condition (MS60 or better) command significant premiums.
Strike quality is particularly important for this issue, as many examples may show weakness in certain areas. Coins with full, sharp details are highly prized. Original luster and attractive toning can also greatly enhance the value and desirability of these quarters.
Mintage: 13,600
Rarity Scale: Very Rare
Circulation Status: Limited Circulation
Preservation Rarity: Extremely rare in grades MS65 and above
Varieties Errors: None significant noted
Market Demand: High, due to low mintage and key date status
Mintage: 16,000
Rarity Scale: Very Rare
Circulation Status: Limited Circulation
Preservation Rarity: Extremely rare in grades MS65 and above
Varieties Errors: None significant noted
Market Demand: High, due to low mintage and key date status
The 1880 Quarter is considered a key date in the Seated Liberty series due to its low mintage. This status significantly increases its value across all grades. The Philadelphia mint issue is slightly rarer than the San Francisco issue, which can affect relative values.
Provenance can play a role in value, especially for high-grade examples. Coins with a documented history in famous collections or with long-term pedigrees may command a premium. Additionally, examples that have been certified by reputable grading services often sell for higher prices due to the assurance of authenticity and grade.