Designed by: Christian Gobrecht
Issue Dates: 1873-1874
Composition: 90% silver, 10% copper
Diameter: 24.3 mm
Weight: 6.25 grams (96.45 grains)
Edge: Reeded
Proof Mintage: 1,240
In 1873 the authorized weight of the quarter dollar was raised from 96 grains to 96.45 grains, the latter figure equaling 6.25 grams. To signify the new standard, arrows were added to the date of quarter dollars produced later in 1873 and all quarter dollars produced in 1874. After 1874 the weight remained the same, but the arrows were no longer used. Otherwise, the Liberty Seated design, with the motto IN GOD WE TRUST on the reverse, is the same as that used from 1866 through 1891.
Examples of this type are readily available in grades from Good through Fine, although specimens are considerably scarcer than the related dimes of the same years. Very Fine pieces are scarce, Extremely Fine coins are quite scarce, AU pieces are rare, Uncirculated pieces are rarer yet, and superb Uncirculated pieces are very rare. Proofs are encountered now and then, in keeping with their original mintages. Among business strikes, there is one rarity, the 1873-CC, which is elusive in all grades.
