Standing Liberty Quarter, 90% Silver Coin
Coin/Bullion · United States Mint, specifically Philadelphia, San Francisco (S), or Denver (D) branch. Designed by sculptor Hermon Atkins MacNeil.
Pattern: Standing Liberty Quarter; Type 2 or 3 (dates 1917-1930) as indicated by the star pattern and chainmail on Liberty's chest.
Type
Coin/Bullion
Maker
United States Mint, specifically Philadelphia, San Francisco (S), or Denver (D) branch. Designed by sculptor Hermon Atkins MacNeil.
Material
90% Silver, 10% Copper. Contains 0.1808 troy ounces of pure silver when in uncirculated condition.
Dimensions
Diameter: 24.3 mm. Standard weight: 6.25 grams. Circulated wear likely reduces weight to ~6.0-6.1 grams.
Description
A circulated example of one of America's most beautiful and controversial coins. The Standing Liberty Quarter replaced the Barber Quarter and is celebrated for its artistic merit, featuring a powerful depiction of Liberty stepping forward with a shield for defense and an olive branch for peace.
Key Features
Standing Liberty figure; 13 stars (partially visible); chainmail drapery on chest; reeded edge; 90% silver content.
Material & Composition
90% Silver, 10% Copper. Contains 0.1808 troy ounces of pure silver when in uncirculated condition.
Finish & Decoration
Original luster now replaced by circulated matte grey patina. Obverse features Liberty standing between two pedestals, her head turned, holding a shield and olive branch. The reverse (not visible) typically features an eagle in flight.
Hallmarks & Stamps
The 'L' for Liberty is partially visible. The mint mark (if present) would be located to the left of Liberty’s feet. The date is located on the pedestal base, though it appears heavily worn or 'dateless' on this specimen.
Construction Details
Struck by the US Mint using high-pressure dies on prepared silver planchets. The reed edge is a functional feature to prevent clipping of the metal.
Functional Features
Reeded edge for anti-counterfeiting and metal-shaving prevention; legal tender denomination of 25 cents.
Handle & Grip Details
Not applicable (coinage). Small size and circular shape designed for handheld exchange and pocket storage.
Craftsmanship Details
Die-struck with high relief. Even in worn condition, the balance of the central figure against the field shows the sculptor's mastery of circular composition.
Authentication Indicators
Correct strike characteristics for US coinage; natural circulation wear patterns; color and 'clink' sound characteristic of 90% silver. No signs of casting seams typical of fakes.
Origin & Manufacturing
United States of America. Traditional minting process involving industrial steel dies and planchet feeding.
Era & Period
Early 20th Century (1916-1930), spanning World War I and the Roaring Twenties. Reflects the Neoclassical 'Renaissance' of American coinage.
Age Estimate
Circa 1917-1930. The design details (chainmail chest) confirm it was produced after the mid-1917 Design Type 1 revision.
Cultural Significance
Represents the US transition into a global power during WWI; a staple of American commerce during the Great Depression until being replaced by the Washington Quarter in 1932.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good/G-4 (Very Heavily Circulated). Significant 'flatness' on the high points of Liberty (knees, chest, head). The date is likely illegible ('dateless'), which is common for this series due to the raised pedestal design. Moderate tarnish in recessed areas.
Value Estimate
Melt Value (approx. $4.50 - $6.00 depending on silver spot) to $8.00. Since the date is worn off, it carries little numismatic premium and is valued mostly for its silver bullion content.
Care & Maintenance
Do not clean or polish. Collectors prefer 'original skin' (natural oxidation). Store in a PVC-free flip or coin tube to prevent chemical damage.
Similar Pieces
Barber Quarter (1892-1916) which preceded it; Washington Quarter (1932-1964) which replaced it; Walker Liberty Half Dollar (contemporary high-art silver).
Interesting Facts
The initial 1916/1917 'Type 1' design featured an exposed right breast, which caused a public outcry, leading the Mint to add chainmail to Liberty's chest in late 1917.