The 1856 Seated Liberty quarters have value as numismatic coins. Keep reading to learn more about these silver coins.
Specifications
Type: Seated Liberty Quarter
Year: 1856
Face Value: $0.25
Composition: 90% silver, 10% copper
Silver Weight: .18 oz.
Total Weight: 6.22 grams
Current Silver Bullion Value: $10.05
The US minted the 1856 quarter with no mint mark and also the 1856 O quarter and 1856 S quarter. The mint mark, when present, can be found on the reverse side of the coin below the eagle.
| Series |
Location |
Quantity Minted |
| 1856 |
Philadelphia |
7,264,000 |
| 1856 O |
New Orleans |
968,000 |
| 1856 S |
San Francisco |
286,000 |
Value
This coin in circulated condition is worth at least its weight in silver. The silver melt value for this coin is $10.05. This melt value is calculated from the current silver spot price of $55.83 per ounce.
The 1856 quarter with no mint mark is worth around $30 in good condition. In very fine condition the value is around $50. In extremely fine condition the value is around $120. In uncirculated condition the price is around $430 for coins with an MS 60 grade. Uncirculated coins with a grade of MS 63 can sell for around $725.
The 1856 O quarter is worth around $50 in good condition. In very fine condition the value is around $130. In extremely fine condition the value is around $260. In uncirculated condition the price is around $1,250 for coins with an MS 60 grade. Uncirculated coins with a grade of MS 63 can sell for around $1,950.
The 1856 S quarter is worth around $405 in good condition. In very fine condition the value is around $950. In extremely fine condition the value is around $2,000. In uncirculated condition the price is around $9,500 for coins with an MS 60 grade. Uncirculated coins with a grade of MS 63 can sell for around $18,000.
A small number of proof coins with no mint mark were minted and they are each valued at around $4,500 in PR 63 condition.
S Over Small S Error Coins
There is a notable error variety for the 1856 S quarter. On this coin the S mint mark is minted over a smaller S.
The 1856 S quarter with the S over small S error is worth around $525 in good condition. In very fine condition the value is around $2,000. In extremely fine condition the value is around $6,250.
Grading System
Good- The word "LIBERTY" on the shield is not readable. The letters and the date are readable.
Very fine- The word "LIBERTY" on the shield is strong.
Extremely fine- The word "LIBERTY" on the shield and the edges on the scroll are distinct.
MS 60 uncirculated- There are no signs of wear. The coin has luster, but there may be a few stains, abrasions, or surface marks.
MS 63 choice uncirculated- In the major focal areas there are some blemishes or contact marks. The coin's luster might not be as prominent.
PR 63 proof- This coin has reflective surfaces and only a few blemishes away from the major focal points. There are no major flaws.
Sources:
The Red Book
See also:
1857 Quarter
1855 Quarter
1854 Quarter