Diagnostic Controls & Presets Standing Liberty Key Date
Diagnostic Forensic Readings
Forensic Attribution Diagnostic
Real-time metallurgical and die variety cross-examination verified against certified populations.
Technical Breakdown: Physics, Metallurgy & Die Diagnostics
Struck in the final two weeks of December 1916 at the Philadelphia Mint. Extremely low survival due to exposed date wear.
On the common 1917 Type 1, the master die was modified so the drapery extends down and touches the bottom pedestal rim.
Documented Benchmark Auction Records
Single finest certified example with full head definition, three crisp leaves, and brilliant cartwheel silver luster.
Honest pocket change wear, full 1916 date distinct on pedestal, verified 1916 reverse drapery fold.
Common 1917 Type 1 with a tooled final digit. The drapery touched the rim, proving it was a 1917 die.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the 1916 Standing Liberty Quarter so rare and valuable?
Designed by sculptor Hermon A. MacNeil, the Standing Liberty Quarter was introduced in late 1916. Because of die preparation delays, striking did not begin until December 16, 1916. Only 52,000 coins were minted before the year ended. Furthermore, because the date was placed on a raised pedestal, it wore off quickly in circulation, making specimens with full dates extraordinarily valuable.
What is the 'Bare Breast' Type 1 variety controversy?
MacNeil's original 1916 design depicted Lady Liberty standing in an opening between two walls, clad in classical drapery that left her right breast exposed to symbolize defense and purity. The design provoked public outcry, and in mid-1917 the Mint covered Liberty in a coat of mail (Type 2). The 1916 is the premier key to the bare breast Type 1 series.
How can you easily distinguish a genuine 1916 from an altered 1917 Type 1?
The most reliable test is the gown drapery! On a genuine 1916, the bottom fold of Liberty's gown floats above the lower rim without touching it. On a 1917 Type 1, the die was retooled so the drapery extends downward and touches the rim. Also, check Liberty's hair: genuine 1916s have a distinct curl loop over the ear.
Why are there so many altered 1917 quarters faked to look like 1916?
Because a genuine 1916 is worth $3,000 to $40,000+, while a 1917 Type 1 in average condition is worth only $35 to $60, counterfeiters frequently take a graver and carve the top crossbar of the '7' into a loop to mimic a '6'.
What is the 'Full Head' (FH) designation on a Standing Liberty Quarter?
Full Head is the ultimate strike benchmark. It requires: 1. Full three distinct olive leaves on Liberty's helmet.\n2. Complete outline of the ear hole.\n3. Crisp unbroken hairline contour. Full Head coins command a 200% to 500% premium over non-FH strikes.
What is the 'Dateless' Standing Liberty Quarter problem?
On Type 1 (1916–1917) and early Type 2 (1917–1924) quarters, the date was stamped on a high, exposed pedestal that wore completely flat after just a few years of pocket circulation. In 1925, the Mint recessed the date below the rim to protect it from wear.
How much is a genuine 1916 Standing Liberty Quarter worth?
In worn Good-4 condition with a readable date, a genuine 1916 is worth $2,800 to $3,500. In Fine to Very Fine, it commands $4,500 to $8,000. In About Uncirculated (AU-50 to 58), it brings $14,000 to $22,000. In uncirculated condition with Full Head (MS-65 FH), it exceeds $45,000 to over $190,000 at auction.