Numismatic

1838 Liberty Seated Quarter XF

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In 1838, the United States Mint introduced a new aesthetic to its quarter dollar, showcasing a design by Christian Gobrecht that would define American silver coinage for decades. Struck in 90 percent silver at the Philadelphia Mint, this quarter represents the beginning of the celebrated Liberty Seated series, a design era that captured the spirit of a growing nation. The obverse of this coin presents Lady Liberty resting upon a rock, her gaze directed to the left. In her hand, she holds a staff topped with a Phrygian cap, a traditional symbol of freedom. Thirteen stars arch over her, representing the original colonies, while the year 1838 is inscribed below her feet. On the reverse, a powerful eagle is depicted facing left, its chest protected by a shield. In its talons, the eagle grasps an olive branch of peace and a cluster of three arrows of strength. The surrounding inscription reads UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, while the denomination is abbreviated at the bottom as QUAR. DOL.