1859 (S) Seated Liberty Quarter
Strike Type
Coin Details
Value Estimates
Values as of May 2026 — estimates reflect typical grades (G-4 through MS-63). Coins in lower or exceptional grades may fall outside this range.
Auction Record
$48,875 AU55 08-13-2006 Heritage Auctions
Description
The 1859 (S) Seated Liberty Quarter was struck at the San Francisco Mint as a quarter in the Seated Liberty Quarters 1838-1891 series. The U.S. Mint produced 80,000 examples, making this the lowest mintage among 3 mint variants, representing only 5% of total production. The obverse features Liberty seated on a rock, holding a pole surmounted by a Phrygian liberty cap in her left hand and a shield inscribed LIBERTY in her right and the reverse displays a heraldic eagle with shield on breast, olive branch and arrows in talons, with a banner reading E PLURIBUS UNUM. Struck during the California Gold Rush era, when vast quantities of western gold transformed the American economy and led to new denominations. Coined at the San Francisco Mint, which transitioned from Gold Rush-era production to its modern role producing proof and collector issues. Estimated market value ranges from $538 to $43K depending on grade and condition. Struck in 90% silver, 10% copper, weighing 6.2 grams, 24.3 mm in diameter, with a reeded edge. Cataloged as PCGS #5450.
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