Price Guide for 1890 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: $75.00 – $719.00Uncirculated: $329.00 – $18,212.50
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eBayCirculated: $99.09 – $471.45Uncirculated: $487.00 – $1,395.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $125.00 – $800.00Uncirculated: $850.00 – $25,000.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $236.00 – $374.00Uncirculated: $2.40 – $19,975.00
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eBayCirculated: $380.00Uncirculated: $635.00 – $1,990.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $450.00 – $600.00Uncirculated: $650.00 – $22,500.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $552.00 – $54,625.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $600.00 – $650.00Uncirculated: $750.00 – $65,000.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $1,020.00 – $18,000.00
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eBayUncirculated: $1,150.00 – $4,999.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $1,250.00 – $35,000.00
Design and Specifications of the 1890 Quarter
The 1890 Liberty Seated Quarter represents one of the final years of this classic design, which had been in use since 1838. This coin was minted during a period of significant economic and social change in the United States, as the country continued its westward expansion and industrial growth.
The Liberty Seated design, created by Christian Gobrecht, was nearing the end of its run, with the Barber coinage set to replace it in 1892. This makes the 1890 quarter an important transitional piece in American numismatic history.
| Weight | 6.25 grams |
|---|---|
| Diameter | 24.3 mm |
| Mint Marks | O (New Orleans), S (San Francisco) |
| Composition | 90% silver, 10% copper |
| Obverse Design | Liberty Seated design, designed by Christian Gobrecht |
| Reverse Design | Heraldic Eagle design, designed by Christian Gobrecht |
Rarity Factors and Value Drivers
The condition of 1890 quarters significantly impacts their value, especially for the rare San Francisco issue. Coins in higher grades (VF and above) command substantial premiums.
For the New Orleans mint, uncirculated examples are scarce and highly sought after. The San Francisco issue is extremely rare in any condition, with uncirculated specimens being true numismatic treasures.
Original mint luster, lack of wear on high points, and absence of significant marks or scratches are crucial factors in determining value. Attractive natural toning can also enhance desirability among collectors.
Mintage: 3,305,000
Rarity Scale: Uncommon
Circulation Status: Moderate Circulation
Preservation Rarity: Scarce in grades MS65 and above
Varieties Errors: None significant
Market Demand: Moderate, due to its status as a late-date Liberty Seated quarter
Mintage: 8,000
Rarity Scale: Very Rare
Circulation Status: Limited Circulation
Preservation Rarity: Extremely rare in uncirculated condition, especially MS65 and above
Varieties Errors: None significant
Market Demand: High, particularly for well-preserved specimens
Mintmark clarity is an important factor for 1890 quarters, particularly for the rare San Francisco issue. Weak or partially struck mintmarks can affect value.
The strike quality varies between the two mints, with New Orleans coins often showing weakness in certain areas. Well-struck examples command a premium.
For the San Francisco issue, provenance can significantly impact value. Coins with a documented history of ownership, especially if linked to famous collections, can be more valuable.
As with all Liberty Seated quarters, die varieties exist and are collected by specialists. Identifying rare varieties can potentially increase a coin’s value.
