The 1839 Seated Liberty Quarter holds a special place in American numismatics as the first year of issue for the iconic Seated Liberty design on the quarter dollar.
Designed by Christian Gobrecht, the Chief Engraver of the United States Mint, the Seated Liberty design was used on various denominations of U.S. coins during the mid-19th century.
On the obverse of the 1839 Seated Liberty Quarter, Liberty is depicted seated on a rock, holding a shield inscribed with the word "LIBERTY" in her right hand and a pole with a Liberty cap in her left.
The reverse features a bald eagle with outstretched wings, clutching arrows and an olive branch in its talons. The eagle is seated on a bundle of arrows, with a shield at its breast.
The 1839 Seated Liberty Quarter marks a significant departure from earlier designs, such as the Capped Bust series, and reflects a shift towards more artistic and symbolic representations of Liberty and American ideals.
These coins were struck in various mintages across several mint facilities, including Philadelphia, New Orleans, and San Francisco.
Due to their historical significance and aesthetic appeal, Seated Liberty Quarters, including the 1839 issue, are popular among collectors. Their value is influenced by factors such as condition, rarity, and demand among collectors.
1. Attend Coin Shows and Auctions: Keep an eye out for coin shows, flea markets, or auctions where rare coins are bought and sold. These events attract collectors and dealers from around the world, offering opportunities to acquire valuable coins for your collection.