1927-S Quarter: Key Facts Every Collector Should Know

When it comes to U.S. quarter dollar coins, collectors often pay special attention to so-called “key dates.” One such coin is the 1927 S quarter minted at San Francisco. This coin stands out due to its historical point of view, at the same time being a part of the largest and most sought-after coins among collectors. So, let us study its historical background and check the value of these coins together to confirm its rarity and exclusivity.

Historical Context: 1927 in the U.S. Coin Industry

The 1920s was an era of economic prosperity and progress in the United States known as the “roaring twenties.” This period is characterized by rapid economic growth, cultural change, and financial stability until the onset of the Great Depression in 1929.

During this period, many interesting and symbolic coins came into circulation, one of which is the 1927 Standing Liberty quarter, first issued in 1916 (not to be confused with the 1927 Walking Liberty quarter, which never existed). This 1927 Liberty quarter design, created by Hermon Atkins MacNeil, became one of the most recognizable in the history of American numismatics.

By 1927, rather long before the 1985 quarters, coins were minted at three mints: Philadelphia, Denver, and San Francisco. San Francisco was the birthplace of the rare and unique 1927S Standing Liberty quarter coin in question.

Liberty in Your Hand: The Legendary Coin and Its Features

Design: Independence and Protection

The Value of 1927 standing liberty quarter is great for several reasons and one of them is its symbolic, well-loved design. The 1927 quarter dollar is a coin with strong symbolism. The obverse shows Liberty standing full-length, with a shield in one hand and an olive branch in the other. The shield is a sign of national defense and attempts to protect the country's interests, and the olive branch symbolizes the desire for peace. This design was a symbol of the American commitment to peace and defense of the country, especially when experiencing years of strong economic and social recovery.

The reverse of the 1927 S Standing Liberty quarter features a flying eagle with outstretched wings, which traditionally symbolizes the country's freedom and strength. Along the top of the coin is inscribed “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA”, and at the bottom - “QUARTER DOLLAR”. Below the eagle is the minting date of 1927. The inscription “E Pluribus Unum” is between the eagle's wings, adding an element of national unity to the design.

Features and Facts to Pay Attention

Did you know that the obverse of the coin originally featured a more revealing image of Liberty with her breasts more naked? However, this design drew a wave of public criticism, especially from moralists of the time who considered it too revealing. The coin was soon redesigned, and Liberty on the obverse of the 1927 quarter dollar (as in earlier issues since 1917) was given a ringlet covering Liberty's breasts, which became more acceptable to the general public.

In addition, the 1927 quarter issue was one of the last with “Standing Liberty” as the design was changed to depict Washington's portrait in the 1930s.

In general, the 1927 mintage coin has the following characteristics:

Along with the other coins of that time this one contained 90% silver, which increases the 1927 quarter dollar coin value not only as an interesting object of collecting, but also from the investment point of view, just like the 1789 Silver Dollar does.

1927 Standing Liberty Quarter Value: Details Making It Extraordinary

One of the main factors that make the 1927-S coin unique is its limited mintage. The 1927S quarter issue was significantly lower than previous and subsequent issues of the Standing Liberty quarter series. Only 396,000 San Francisco pieces were struck, making this one of the rarest coins in the series. And only 15% of the total circulation of 1927-S quarters were preserved in collectible condition. The low mintage together with a number of other factors make this 1927 quarter worth good money and close attention from collectors.

You should know that San Francisco produced coins with slightly lower minting quality than other mints during that period. The coins often had a weak strike which made their image less clear. Finding coins with clear, well-preserved details (like Lady Liberty's armor and eagle feathers) is extremely difficult. For this reason, coins in a high grade (MS-65 and above) are extremely rare, which adds to their 1927 quarter dollar value as collectibles.

Today, 1927 Liberty quarters S are hardly found in circulation. Most of them are long gone to private collections, and the condition of those that are still in circulation often leaves much to be desired.

How Much Is a 1927 Quarter Worth?

San Francisco 1927 Liberty quarter value may vary depending on condition. The following are approximate figures:

In 2018, one of the 1927 Standing Liberty S quarters in MS66 grade sold at auction for a record $44,650. Such a high price was due to the condition and rarity of these 1927 US quarter examples. And as we mentioned earlier, when it comes to the price of a coin, it is important to focus on the basic rule of numismatics: the higher the degree of preservation, the higher the 1927 quarter coin value.

Additional Tip: If you are comfortable with the fact that the 1927 standing liberty quarter worth almost a fortune and you are ready to buy it, keep in mind that 1927-S quarter counterfeit coins can be found on the market, so it is important to use coin verification tools.

Use an application such as Coin ID Scanner. It is great for identifying and determining the value of coins, whether they are rare or foreign pieces.

Cherished Coin

The 1927-S quarter is a true numismatic diamond that holds an entire era hidden within it. Its history is full of unique facts and features due to which it stands apart from other coins. The combination of low mintage, rarity in excellent condition and rich heritage determines the high value of the coin, making it a collector's coveted dream. This is the kind of coin that is hard to find, easy to sell and impossible to forget. In general, the one that will bring priceless pleasure and pride, taking a place of honor in any collection.

Sources:

1. https://www.ngccoin.com/coin-explorer/united-states/quarters/standing-liberty-quarters-1916-1930/15764/1927-s-25c-ms/

2. https://www.pcgs.com/coinfacts/coin/1927-s-25c/5764