Semi-Numismatic

1918-S Standing Liberty Quarter Fine

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In 1918, the San Francisco Mint struck a quarter dollar that perfectly captured the tense global atmosphere of the era. This silver coin, composed of 90 percent silver with a precious metal weight of 0.17875 troy ounces, presents a powerful visual narrative that departs from traditional representations of Liberty. Graded in Fine condition, this specimen shows honest wear while preserving the essential details of its bold, historic artwork. The obverse design, created by sculptor Hermon MacNeil, presents a highly militaristic depiction of Liberty. She is shown stepping forward through an opening in a wall, clad in protective chainmail. In her hands, she balances the dual concepts of peace and defense, holding an olive branch in one hand and a shield in the other. The inscriptions "IN GOD WE TRUST" and the year "1918" are visible, alongside the "S" mint mark indicating its origin in San Francisco. On the reverse, the coin features a majestic eagle captured mid-flight. This soaring bird is surrounded by the traditional national inscriptions, including "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA," the legendary motto "E PLURIBUS UNUM," and the denomination "QUARTER DOLLAR." This combination of defensive strength on the obverse and dynamic grace on the reverse makes the 1918-S quarter a compelling artifact of early twentieth-century American coinage.