Numismatic

1840-O Liberty Seated Quarter No Drapery Fine

---

In 1840, the New Orleans Mint produced a distinctive version of the silver quarter that captures a brief moment in early American coin design. This specific issue is known as Variety 1, characterized by the lack of drapery hanging from Liberty's elbow on the obverse, and the absence of a motto above the eagle on the reverse. Struck from 90 percent silver, this coin represents an intriguing transitional phase in the Liberty Seated series. The obverse displays Liberty seated on a rock, holding a staff topped with a liberty cap in one hand while her other hand rests on a shield inscribed with the word LIBERTY. Below her is the date 1840. Because this is the 'No Drapery' variety, the space beneath her left elbow is open, presenting a cleaner, more minimalist silhouette than later versions of the design. On the reverse, an eagle is depicted with a shield across its chest, clutching an olive branch and three arrows in its talons. The legend UNITED STATES OF AMERICA arches over the eagle, while the denomination QUAR. DOL. sits below. Positioned just above the denomination is the 'O' mint mark, indicating its origin at the historic southern mint. This coin, graded in Fine condition, offers a tangible look at the evolving artistry of early United States coinage.