The 1924 Standing Liberty Quarter is a fascinating piece of U.S. coin history, known for its beautiful design and unique features. Created by sculptor Hermon Atkins MacNeil, this quarter is admired by collectors for its artistic details but is also recognized for certain design flaws that made it prone to wear. This guide covers the background, design elements, and current market trends for this iconic coin.
Background of the 1924 Standing Liberty Quarter
The Standing Liberty Quarter was introduced in 1916, and 1924 was the last year before a key design modification. Originally, the date on the coin was positioned on a raised step at the bottom of the obverse (front side). This design led to heavy wear on the date, causing many quarters to become “dateless” within a few years of use. In 1925, the U.S. Mint addressed this problem by lowering the date area to reduce wear.
This issue was similar to the Buffalo Nickel’s date wear, which had required a similar adjustment. Both cases highlight the challenges the Mint faced in balancing artistic designs with practical durability.
Certified Market Overview for the 1924 Standing Liberty Quarter
As the 1924 Standing Liberty Quarter reaches its centennial, it remains a popular choice among collectors, especially in higher grades. Third-party grading companies like PCGS and NGC help collectors understand the value and quality of coins, with detailed grades like MS (Mint State) and designations such as FH (Full Head) indicating higher detail quality.
| Grade Level | Approximate Market Price | Notable Features |
|---|---|---|
| MS66FH | $750 – $900 | Common in higher grades; significant price drop from earlier values |
| MS67FH | $1,500+ | Good condition with desirable toning, such as rainbow or russet shades |
| MS68FH | $16,000+ | High demand due to limited supply, with auction prices peaking for exceptional examples |
This table summarizes current price ranges, although prices vary depending on factors like toning and holder type. For instance, a 1924 quarter from the Just Having Fun Collection with rainbow toning and MS68FH grading fetched over $20,000 at auction.
Noteworthy Sales and Collections
Certain examples of the 1924 Standing Liberty Quarter have gained fame due to their unique characteristics and auction prices. Some notable sales include:
- PCGS MS68FH, Just Having Fun Collection: Sold for over $20,000 due to brilliant toning and high grade.
- PCGS MS67FH: Once rare, more examples have entered the market, with auction prices between $750 to $900.
- Stack’s Bowers, August 2012 Sale: Two 1924 quarters with Wayte Raymond toning, known for the richly colored edges, attracted strong bids from collectors.
Design Features of the 1924 Standing Liberty Quarter
The Standing Liberty Quarter’s intricate design makes it a standout in American coinage.
Obverse (Front) Design
- Lady Liberty stands at the center, holding a shield in one hand for defense and an olive branch in the other as a symbol of peace.
- “LIBERTY” arcs across the top, with the motto “IN GOD WE TRUST” on either side of Liberty.
- The date 1924 is positioned on a raised step beneath Liberty, which caused wear issues in circulation.
Reverse (Back) Design
- An eagle in flight with outstretched wings symbolizes freedom.
- Surrounding the eagle, “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” is written above, while “QUARTER DOLLAR” appears below.
- Stars frame the eagle, adding a decorative and patriotic feel to the design.
Specifications
The table below summarizes the key technical details for the 1924 Standing Liberty Quarter:
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Country | United States |
| Year of Issue | 1924 |
| Mint | Philadelphia (no mint mark) |
| Composition | 90% Silver, 10% Copper |
| Weight | 6.25 grams |
| Diameter | 24.3 mm |
| Designer | Hermon A. MacNeil |
| Edge | Reeded |
Conclusion
The 1924 Standing Liberty Quarter remains a valued piece of American coin history. Its intricate design by Hermon MacNeil, combined with the notable date-wear issue, has made it highly collectible. The coin’s centennial year in 2024 has brought renewed interest in its market value and historical significance. With a deep understanding of grading standards, design details, and current price trends, collectors can make informed choices when adding this iconic quarter to their collections.
FAQ’s
Why is the 1924 Standing Liberty Quarter valuable?
The 1924 Standing Liberty Quarter is valued for its beautiful design and historical significance. However, it also has unique features like date wear, which makes well-preserved examples harder to find, especially in higher grades, adding to its collectible appeal.
What does “Full Head” (FH) mean for the Standing Liberty Quarter?
“Full Head” (FH) refers to a grade designation showing that Lady Liberty’s head on the coin is fully detailed. Coins with a Full Head grading are often more valuable because it indicates a higher quality strike with better detail.
How much does a 1924 Standing Liberty Quarter cost?
Prices vary by condition, with average-grade coins selling for around $10-$20, while high-grade examples, like MS67FH, can reach thousands of dollars. Unique features, such as toning and rarity in certain grades, also affect value.