United States Standing Liberty Quarter

This item is an American silver Standing Liberty quarter, a 25-cent coin minted between 1916 and 1930. The image displays the reverse side of the coin, which features a majestic eagle in flight with wings outstretched, surrounded by the words 'UNITED STATES OF AMERICA' and 'QUARTER DOLLAR.' Physically, the coin is composed of 90% silver and 10% copper, measuring approximately 24.3mm in diameter. The specimen shows significant signs of age and wear; the surface possesses a heavy, dark brown and grey patina, which is common for silver coins of this era that have been in circulation. The high points of the eagle's wings and breast appear flattened from use, and the overall detail is somewhat muted by 'toning' and surface grime. There are visible small nicks and scratches consistent with its age as a mid-vintaged numismatic piece. The craftsmanship is indicative of Hermon Atkins MacNeil's original Art Deco-inspired design, though the specific mint mark or year cannot be determined without viewing the obverse or a clearer close-up of the area below the eagle. Its condition would likely be graded as 'Circulated' or 'Very Good' based on the level of detail remaining in the feathers and lettering.

I have examined the images of this Standing Liberty Quarter. The coin is a genuine 90% silver specimen featuring Hermon Atkins MacNeil's Type 2 reverse, evidenced by the three stars below the eagle and the eagle's elevated position. Based on the heavy patina and significant flattening of the eagle’s breast and wing feathers, I grade this coin in 'Good' to 'Very Good' (G-VG) circulated condition. The dark, uneven toning and surface grime suggest it may have been stored in a high-sulfur environment or handled frequently. The market for circulated Standing Liberty Quarters is largely driven by 'melt value' (silver content) unless a key date or mint mark is present. Without viewing the obverse to identify the date, I am valuing this as a common-date specimen. Comparables for common-date, circulated SLQs currently trade in the $10-$25 range. Rare dates like the 1916 or 1923-S would command thousands, but they are unlikely given this specimen's Type 2 reverse. A definitive valuation is limited by the lack of an obverse view; the date is essential for numismatic premium. Furthermore, image-based appraisal cannot detect 'cleaning'—a process that strips surface metal and significantly devalues coins. For a full authentication, I would require a physical inspection to check for weight (6.25g), diameter, and to ensure the patina is not concealing surface damage. Professional grading by PCGS or NGC is recommended if a rare date is discovered upon flipping the coin.