Price Guide for 1879 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: $127.00 – $705.00Uncirculated: $3.25 – $60,000.00
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eBayCirculated: $371.00 – $674.00Uncirculated: $695.00 – $3,920.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $175.00 – $900.00Uncirculated: $925.00 – $65,000.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $240.00 – $1,437.00Uncirculated: $2.20 – $8,625.00
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eBayCirculated: $499.99Uncirculated: $430.00 – $1,620.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $325.00 – $600.00Uncirculated: $650.00 – $7,500.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $158.63Uncirculated: $552.25 – $9,200.00
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eBayUncirculated: $862.00 – $1,350.09
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $900.00 – $8,500.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $1,620.00
Design and Specifications of the 1879 Quarter
The 1879 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 a more classical approach to American coinage. The year 1879 was notable for its low mintage numbers, making coins from this year particularly interesting to collectors.
| Weight | 6.25 grams |
|---|---|
| Diameter | 24.3 mm |
| Mint Marks | P (Philadelphia, no mint mark), S (San Francisco) |
| 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 1879 Quarters has a significant impact on their value. Due to their low mintage and age, finding high-grade specimens is extremely challenging. Coins in uncirculated condition (MS60 and above) are highly prized by collectors and can command substantial premiums.
The strike quality is particularly important for this issue, as weak strikes were common. Well-struck examples with full details on Liberty’s head and the eagle’s feathers are more desirable. Original luster is also a key factor, with coins retaining their original mint luster being more valuable. Natural toning can add to the coin’s appeal, especially if it’s attractive and even.
Mintage: 13,600
Rarity Scale: 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: 20,000
Rarity Scale: Rare
Circulation Status: Limited Circulation
Preservation Rarity: Very rare in grades MS65 and above
Varieties Errors: None significant noted
Market Demand: High, due to low mintage and key date status
Rarity across all grades is a major factor for 1879 Quarters. Even in circulated conditions, these coins are scarce and valuable. The historical significance of the low mintage year adds to their appeal among collectors and historians.
The preservation of design details is crucial, particularly on Liberty’s head, shield, and the eagle’s feathers. Coins with sharp, well-defined features are more desirable. Any prooflike surfaces on circulation strikes can significantly increase value, as they are extremely rare for this year.
While major errors are not commonly noted for this year, any discovered mint errors could potentially be very valuable due to the low mintage. Collectors should also be aware of potential counterfeits due to the coin’s rarity and value.
