Find The Value Of Your 1861 Quarter

What is a 1861 quarter? It is a United States coin worth 25 cents (one-fourth of a US dollar) that was first minted in 1861

The obverse (heads) of the coin features a Liberty Head designed by Christian Gobrecht, while the reverse (tails) depicts an eagle perched on a rock with a shield in front of it. The 1861 quarter is made of 90% silver and 10% copper.

The 1861 quarter is a popular coin among collectors, and it is also a valuable piece of American history. It was minted during the Civil War, and it circulated for many years after the war ended. Today, the 1861 quarter is a reminder of the turbulent times in which it was created.

Here are some of the key features of the 1861 quarter:

• Diameter: 24.3 mm
• Weight: 6.25 grams
• Composition: 90% silver, 10% copper
• Obverse: Liberty Head designed by Christian Gobrecht
• Reverse: Eagle perched on a rock with a shield in front of it

The 1861 quarter is a beautiful and historic coin that is a valuable addition to any collection.

1861 quarter

The 1861 quarter is a historic and valuable coin that has several key aspects:

• Obverse: Liberty Head designed by Christian Gobrecht
• Reverse: Eagle perched on a rock with a shield in front of it
• Diameter: 24.3 mm
• Weight: 6.25 grams
• Composition: 90% silver, 10% copper
• Mintage: 2,172,000
• Value: $10-$150

These aspects make the 1861 quarter a unique and desirable coin. The Liberty Head designed by Christian Gobrecht is one of the most iconic coin designs in American history. The eagle perched on a rock with a shield in front of it is a powerful symbol of the United States. The coin's diameter, weight, and composition are all within the standard specifications for quarters minted at the time. The mintage of 2,172,000 coins is relatively low, which makes the coin more valuable. The value of the coin ranges from $10 to $150, depending on its condition.

1. Obverse

The obverse of the 1861 quarter features a Liberty Head designed by Christian Gobrecht. This design is one of the most iconic in American numismatics, and it has been used on a variety of coins, including the dime, half dollar, and dollar. Gobrecht's Liberty Head is a classic example of the neoclassical style, which was popular in the 19th century. The design features a bust of Liberty facing left, with her hair flowing behind her. She is wearing a Phrygian cap, which was a symbol of freedom and revolution. The cap is inscribed with the word "LIBERTY," and the date "1861" is inscribed below the bust.

• Artistic Merit: Gobrecht's Liberty Head is a beautiful and timeless design. It is a perfect example of the neoclassical style, and it has been praised by coin collectors and art historians alike.
• Historical Significance: The Liberty Head was first used on the 1836 Gobrecht dollar. This coin was the first silver dollar to be minted in the United States, and it was also the first coin to feature a Liberty Head design. The Liberty Head was also used on the 1851 quarter eagle, the 1854 half dollar, and the 1856 dime. These coins were all important milestones in the history of American coinage.
• Cultural Impact: The Liberty Head has become one of the most recognizable symbols of the United States. It has been used on coins, stamps, and other government documents. It is also a popular motif in American art and design.
• Legacy: Gobrecht's Liberty Head design has had a lasting impact on American coinage. It is still used on the dime today, and it has been used on a variety of other coins throughout American history.

The Liberty Head designed by Christian Gobrecht is a beautiful and iconic design that has had a profound impact on American coinage. It is a timeless symbol of liberty and freedom, and it is a reminder of the rich history of the United States.

2. Reverse

The reverse of the 1861 quarter features an eagle perched on a rock with a shield in front of it. This design is a symbol of the United States of America, and it has been used on coins since the early days of the republic. The eagle is a powerful and majestic bird, and it is often associated with strength, courage, and freedom. The shield is a symbol of protection, and it represents the United States' commitment to defending its citizens and its interests. The rock is a symbol of stability and strength, and it represents the foundation upon which the United States was built.

The eagle perched on a rock with a shield in front of it is a powerful and iconic symbol of the United States of America. It is a reminder of the country's strength, courage, and commitment to freedom and justice.

The reverse of the 1861 quarter is a beautiful and meaningful design. It is a reminder of the ideals upon which the United States was founded, and it is a symbol of the country's strength and resilience.

3. Diameter

The diameter of the 1861 quarter is 24.3 mm. This is the standard diameter for quarters minted in the United States since 1856. The diameter is important because it ensures that the coin can be easily used in vending machines and other devices that require coins of a specific size.

• Facet 1: Coin Compatibility
  

  The diameter of 24.3 mm ensures that the 1861 quarter is compatible with other quarters and can be used in vending machines, parking meters, and other devices that require coins of a specific size.

• Facet 2: Coin Stackability
  

  The uniform diameter of 24.3 mm allows quarters to be easily stacked and counted, making them easier to handle and transport.

• Facet 3: Coin Recognition
  

  The consistent diameter of quarters makes them easily recognizable and distinguishable from other coins, reducing the likelihood of confusion or counterfeiting.

• Facet 4: Historical Significance
  

  The diameter of 24.3 mm has been used for quarters since 1856, making it a recognizable and iconic size that connects the 1861 quarter to a long history of American coinage.

The diameter of 24.3 mm is an important aspect of the 1861 quarter. It ensures that the coin is compatible with other quarters, can be easily stacked and counted, is easily recognizable, and has a historical significance that connects it to other American coins.

4. Weight

The weight of a 1861 quarter is 6.25 grams. This is an important characteristic of the coin, as it affects its value, composition, and overall quality.

The weight of a coin is determined by its size, shape, and composition. The 1861 quarter is composed of 90% silver and 10% copper. This gives the coin a specific density, which in turn determines its weight. The weight of the coin is also affected by its size and shape. The 1861 quarter is a relatively large coin, with a diameter of 24.3 mm. This gives it a greater surface area, which in turn increases its weight.

The weight of a 1861 quarter is important because it affects its value. Coins that are heavier are generally worth more than coins that are lighter. This is because heavier coins contain more metal, which is more valuable. The weight of a 1861 quarter can also affect its composition. Coins that are lighter may have a higher percentage of copper and a lower percentage of silver. This can affect the coin's color and luster.

The weight of a 1861 quarter is an important factor to consider when collecting or selling coins. It can affect the coin's value, composition, and overall quality.

5. Composition

The composition of a 1861 quarter is 90% silver and 10% copper. This composition gives the coin a number of important properties, including:

• Durability: Silver is a very durable metal, and it is resistant to corrosion and wear. This makes the 1861 quarter a very durable coin that can withstand the rigors of everyday use.
• Conductivity: Silver is a good conductor of electricity, which makes it ideal for use in electrical applications. This property is not as important for coins, but it is still a noteworthy characteristic of the 1861 quarter.
• Value: Silver is a valuable metal, and this contributes to the value of the 1861 quarter. The silver content of the coin makes it worth more than its face value, and it is a popular coin among collectors.

The composition of the 1861 quarter is an important factor in its value and durability. The 90% silver content makes the coin valuable and durable, and it is a popular coin among collectors.

In addition to the properties listed above, the composition of the 1861 quarter also affects its appearance. The silver content gives the coin a bright white color, and the copper content gives it a slight reddish tint. The combination of these two metals gives the 1861 quarter a distinctive appearance that is different from other coins.

The composition of the 1861 quarter is an important part of its history and value. The 90% silver content makes the coin valuable and durable, and it is a popular coin among collectors. The composition of the coin also affects its appearance, giving it a bright white color with a slight reddish tint.

6. Mintage

The mintage of a coin refers to the number of coins that were produced in a particular year. The mintage of the 1861 quarter was 2,172,000 coins. This relatively low mintage makes the 1861 quarter a more valuable coin than some other quarters from the same era.

• Rarity: The low mintage of the 1861 quarter makes it a relatively rare coin. This rarity contributes to the coin's value and makes it a popular coin among collectors.
• Historical Significance: The 1861 quarter was minted during the Civil War. The low mintage of the coin may be due to the fact that the United States Mint was producing large quantities of other coins, such as the Liberty Head nickel, which was also introduced in 1861.
• Collector Value: The 1861 quarter is a popular coin among collectors. The coin's low mintage, historical significance, and attractive design all contribute to its collector value.

The mintage of the 1861 quarter is an important factor in its value and popularity. The low mintage makes the coin relatively rare, which contributes to its value. The historical significance of the coin also adds to its value and popularity among collectors.

7. Value

The value of a 1861 quarter can range from $10 to $150, depending on its condition and other factors. Here are some of the key factors that affect the value of a 1861 quarter:

• Condition: The condition of a coin is one of the most important factors that affect its value. A coin that is in good condition will be worth more than a coin that is in poor condition. The condition of a coin is determined by a number of factors, including the amount of wear and tear on the coin, the presence of any damage, and the overall appearance of the coin.
• Rarity: The rarity of a coin is another important factor that affects its value. A coin that is rare will be worth more than a coin that is common. The rarity of a coin is determined by the number of coins that were minted and the number of coins that have survived to the present day.
• Historical significance: The historical significance of a coin can also affect its value. A coin that was minted during an important historical event or that is associated with a famous person or event will be worth more than a coin that does not have any historical significance.

The 1861 quarter is a valuable coin because it is relatively rare, it is in good condition, and it has historical significance. The 1861 quarter was minted during the Civil War, and it is a reminder of this important event in American history.

Frequently Asked Questions About the 1861 Quarter

The 1861 quarter is a popular and valuable coin among collectors. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about this coin:

Question 1: What is the value of a 1861 quarter?

The value of a 1861 quarter can range from $10 to $150, depending on its condition and other factors. The condition of the coin is one of the most important factors that affect its value. A coin that is in good condition will be worth more than a coin that is in poor condition. The rarity of the coin is another important factor that affects its value. A coin that is rare will be worth more than a coin that is common. The historical significance of the coin can also affect its value. A coin that was minted during an important historical event or that is associated with a famous person or event will be worth more than a coin that does not have any historical significance.

Question 2: What is the composition of a 1861 quarter?

The composition of a 1861 quarter is 90% silver and 10% copper. This composition gives the coin a number of important properties, including durability, conductivity, and value. The silver content makes the coin durable and resistant to corrosion and wear. The copper content gives the coin a slight reddish tint and makes it a good conductor of electricity.

Question 3: What is the mintage of a 1861 quarter?

The mintage of a 1861 quarter is 2,172,000 coins. This relatively low mintage makes the 1861 quarter a more valuable coin than some other quarters from the same era. The low mintage may be due to the fact that the United States Mint was producing large quantities of other coins, such as the Liberty Head nickel, which was also introduced in 1861.

Question 4: What are the key features of a 1861 quarter?

The key features of a 1861 quarter include:

• Obverse: Liberty Head designed by Christian Gobrecht
• Reverse: Eagle perched on a rock with a shield in front of it
• Diameter: 24.3 mm
• Weight: 6.25 grams
• Composition: 90% silver, 10% copper
• Mintage: 2,172,000 coins
• Value: $10-$150

Question 5: What is the historical significance of the 1861 quarter?

The 1861 quarter was minted during the Civil War. The coin is a reminder of this important event in American history. The Liberty Head on the obverse of the coin is a symbol of freedom and democracy. The eagle on the reverse of the coin is a symbol of strength and power. The coin is a reminder of the values that the United States was founded on.

These are just a few of the most frequently asked questions about the 1861 quarter. If you have any other questions, please feel free to contact a coin dealer or other expert.

Summary: The 1861 quarter is a popular and valuable coin among collectors. The coin is made of 90% silver and 10% copper. It has a mintage of 2,172,000 coins. The coin is a reminder of the Civil War and the values that the United States was founded on.

Transition to the next article section: The 1861 quarter is a fascinating coin with a rich history. If you are interested in learning more about this coin, there are a number of resources available online and in libraries.

Conclusion

The 1861 quarter is a fascinating and valuable coin with a rich history. It is a reminder of the Civil War and the values that the United States was founded on. The coin is a popular and valuable coin among collectors. The Liberty Head on the obverse of the coin is a symbol of freedom and democracy. The eagle on the reverse of the coin is a symbol of strength and power.

The 1861 quarter is a reminder of the importance of history and the values that we hold dear. It is a coin that should be cherished and preserved for future generations.