1855 Liberty Seated Quarter Proofs: Historical Treasure with Auction Records

The 1855 Liberty Seated Quarter is an important coin in U.S. history, and it is known for being the last year the United States Mint added arrows to the date. These arrows marked the change in the weight of silver coins, which was significant at the time. Let’s dive into the details of this coin, its Proof versions, and how they have fared in the market.

The Significance of the 1855 Liberty Seated Quarter

The 1855 quarter stands out for several reasons. Firstly, it was the last year the Mint included arrows next to the date to signify the 1853 weight change. As most of the coins from previous years were melted or exchanged for a profit due to Gresham’s Law, there was a strong shift in the coin market during this period. Despite the fact that the demand for circulating quarters in 1855 was lower than in 1853 and 1854, it remained fairly high.

Proof Coins and the Collecting Community

In the mid-19th century, the coin-collecting community was growing, and collectors started showing more interest in coins like copper and silver dollars. During this period, most Proof mintages for other denominations were estimated to be less than 20 coins. Among the most fascinating examples of this era is the 1855 Liberty Seated Quarter Proof. Many believe the mintage for these coins was around 20, making them incredibly rare and sought after by collectors.

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The San Francisco Branch Mint Proof

What makes the 1855 Liberty Seated Quarter particularly special is the unique Proof coin struck at the San Francisco Mint. This coin is even rarer than the standard 1855 Proofs, and it consistently attracts attention at auctions due to its rarity and historical value. This San Francisco branch mint Proof is highly prized among coin collectors, adding a layer of intrigue to an already important coin.

The Coin’s History and Auction Prices

One notable story about the 1855 Liberty Seated Quarter was published in the January 2011 issue of Coin World. A set of these coins was discovered in the cornerstone of a church in Philadelphia, where they had been hidden for over a century. The coins were graded NGC PF65, and their discovery piqued the interest of the coin community. However, as the certification number of this particular set is no longer active, it is not included in some databases today.

According to CoinWeek, there are 13 known examples of this coin in the Proof 64-66 grade range. The population reports from major grading services like CAC, NGC, and PCGS suggest that there are a few more examples in other grades, but they are not tracked as closely.

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Coin Grading and Market Trends

When it comes to collecting coins, grade is everything. The 1855 Liberty Seated Quarter Proof has seen consistent grading stability, with only one coin showing a slight upgrade. The coins in the higher grade range, such as the cameo versions, tend to be more desirable and are typically sold for about 40% more than non-cameo examples.

Some of the most notable auctions for these coins include:

• NGC PF66 #1710125-001: This coin was sold for $28,200 in 2014 and is part of the “Harlan P. Smith Collection.”
• PCGS PR65+CAM #36545491: Sold for $34,500 at a Heritage Auctions event in 2009.
• NGC PF65CAM #642675-004: Sold for $25,200 in 2023 at Stack’s Bowers.

The prices for these coins have fluctuated based on factors like grade, toning, and historical significance. Coins with stunning toning, such as those with blue and purple hues, tend to fetch higher prices, while coins with more minimal toning may not be as highly valued.

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The Market for 1855 Liberty Seated Quarters

The 1855 Liberty Seated Quarter market remains stable, with continued demand for high-quality Proof examples. Collectors are particularly drawn to coins with unique histories or those from prestigious collections, like the one previously owned by Louis E. Eliasberg.

With more and more collectors entering the market, the interest in rare coins like the 1855 Liberty Seated Quarter is only expected to grow. However, it’s important to remember that the desirability of these coins largely depends on personal preferences and taste. Some buyers might favor the appearance of a beautifully toned coin, while others might prefer a more pristine example.

Conclusion

The 1855 Liberty Seated Quarter Proof is one of the most fascinating coins in U.S. history. Its rarity, historical significance, and unique place in the market make it a must-have for serious collectors. Whether you’re interested in the coin’s rich history or its potential investment value, this quarter is sure to remain a significant part of the numismatic world for years to come.

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