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The Seated Liberty Quarter of 1888-S is a notable example of late 19th-century American coinage, reflecting the design and technical standards of the era. This coin, minted during a period of economic growth and industrialization in the United States, represents a significant chapter in the history of U.S. currency. The 1888-S Seated Liberty Quarter is distinguished by its design features, its production at the San Francisco Mint, and its place within the broader context of American numismatics.
The design of the 1888-S Seated Liberty Quarter is attributed to Christian Gobrecht, whose work has left a lasting impact on U.S. coinage. The obverse features a depiction of Liberty seated on a rock, holding a shield in her left hand and a liberty pole with a cap in her right hand. This image symbolizes strength and freedom, aligning with the values and ideals of the late 19th century. Below Liberty is the date “1888,” while the inscriptions “LIBERTY” on the shield and “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” encircle the edge of the coin. The reverse design showcases a heraldic eagle with outstretched wings, clutching an olive branch and arrows. The eagle is surrounded by a ribbon bearing the motto “E PLURIBUS UNUM,” and the denomination “QUARTER DOLLAR” is inscribed below. The design of the coin is characterized by its neoclassical style, emphasizing artistic elegance and symbolic representation, which were prevalent in the mid-to-late 19th century American coinage.
The 1888-S Seated Liberty Quarter was minted at the San Francisco Mint, a facility that played a crucial role in the production of U.S. coinage during the late 19th century. The San Francisco Mint, established in 1938, was a key player in the distribution of currency, especially in the western regions of the United States. The mintage of the 1888-S Seated Liberty Quarter was approximately 2,368,000 coins. This mintage reflects the coin’s role in everyday transactions and its significance within the broader monetary system of the period. The substantial production volume indicates that the 1888-S Seated Liberty Quarter was widely circulated and played an important role in the economy of the late 19th century. The coin’s production at the San Francisco Mint underscores the facility’s importance in the creation and distribution of currency across the western United States.
In terms of condition, a Very Good (VG) grade for the 1888-S Seated Liberty Quarter indicates that the coin has experienced significant wear but retains most of its essential design elements. In Very Good condition, the coin will exhibit noticeable wear on high points, with Liberty’s features and the inscriptions on both the obverse and reverse being worn but still discernible. The details of Liberty’s shield, the folds of her dress, and the eagle’s features will be visible, although they may be worn down or softened. The coin’s surface will show signs of circulation wear, such as scratches, smooth areas, and potentially minor abrasions, but the overall design remains identifiable. The date “1888” and the inscriptions “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” and “QUARTER DOLLAR” will be readable, providing key information about the coin’s origin and denomination. Very Good examples of the 1888-S Seated Liberty Quarter are valued by collectors for their historical significance and their representation of late 19th-century American numismatics.
The 1888-S Seated Liberty Quarter holds a significant place in the history of U.S. coinage, offering valuable insights into the artistic and technical standards of its time. The coin’s design, minting history, and condition all contribute to its importance and appeal. As a product of the San Francisco Mint and a continuation of Christian Gobrecht’s design legacy, the 1888-S Seated Liberty Quarter represents a key moment in American coinage. Collectors and historians appreciate this coin for its historical context, its role in the evolution of U.S. coinage, and its representation of the artistry and technical standards of the late 19th century. Despite its wear, the 1888-S Seated Liberty Quarter remains a cherished item for those who value the rich heritage of American numismatics and the nuances of its historical development.