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The 1917-D Type 2 Standing Liberty Quarter is worth anywhere from $35 in worn condition to over $1,200 in choice mint state. This specific year is legendary among collectors because it represents a major design overhaul, making your pocket change potentially very valuable if it bears the Denver “D” mint mark.
| Condition Grade | Estimated Value (USD) |
|---|---|
| Good (G-4) | $35 – $45 |
| Fine (F-12) | $85 – $110 |
| Extremely Fine (XF-40) | $210 – $250 |
| Uncirculated (MS-63) | $550 – $700 |
| Choice Uncirculated (MS-65 FH) | $1,250+ |
Understanding the 1917-D Type 2 Standing Liberty Quarter History
The year 1917 was a transformative period for American coinage. While the Standing Liberty series began in late 1916, public outcry and practical minting issues led to a significant redesign midway through 1917. If you’ve discovered an old quarter in a family collection, using a top coin identifier app can help you distinguish between the two types.
The “Type 2” design was introduced to address concerns about Lady Liberty’s exposed breast on the Type 1 version and to fix the “clashing” of the eagle’s wings on the reverse. In the Type 2 version, Liberty is covered in chain mail, and the reverse features three stars positioned underneath the eagle.
The Denver Mint (represented by the “D”) produced significantly fewer quarters than Philadelphia that year. This scarcity, combined with the historical shift in design, makes the 1917-D Type 2 Standing Liberty Quarter value higher than many of its contemporaries. Finding one today is like holding a piece of World War I-era history that survived over a century of circulation.
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How to Identify the Type 2 1917-D Quarter Design
To ensure you have a Type 2 coin, look closely at the reverse (the back) of the coin. On Type 2 quarters, the eagle is positioned higher up, and there are three stars located directly below the eagle’s feet. If there are no stars below the eagle, you likely have a Type 1.
The mint mark “D” is located on the obverse (the front), just to the left of the date, near the bottom of the wall Liberty is standing next to. Because these coins were struck in 90% silver, they have a distinct ring and weight compared to modern quarters. You can use the CoinKnow app to scan the coin’s surface and confirm the mint mark location.
Your Old Coin Could Be Valuable!
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Checking the fine details is essential for an accurate valuation. Collectors often look for the “Full Head” (FH) designation, which refers to a crisp, clear strike on Liberty’s helmet. If the head detail is complete, the value of your 1917-D Type 2 can skyrocket into the thousands.
Current Market Value and Pricing Trends for 1917-D Quarters
The market for 1917-D Type 2 Standing Liberty Quarter value has remained remarkably stable because of the coin’s silver content and its status as a “key date” variant. Even in heavily worn “Good” condition, these coins command a premium because there are few survivors that haven’t been melted down or lost.
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| Circulated Grade | Market Price Range |
|---|---|
| About Good (AG-3) | $25 – $35 |
| Very Good (VG-8) | $55 – $70 |
| Very Fine (VF-20) | $130 – $160 |
| About Uncirculated (AU-50) | $300 – $380 |
For those tracking high-end investments, the 1917-D Type 2 Standing Liberty Quarter pricing for MS grades shows that coins with original mint luster and few scratches are currently in high demand among professional numismatists.
The Importance of the Full Head (FH) Designation
Professional graders at the PCGS or NGC often look for the “Full Head” (FH) attribute. This means that all the details of Liberty’s hair, her ear, and the hairline on her helmet are visible. Because the Standing Liberty Quarter was notoriously difficult to strike fully, many 1917-D quarters appear “flat” on the head, even if they were never circulated.
If you have a coin that looks brand new, check it with the CoinKnow app to see if it might qualify for this designation. A 1917-D Type 2 with a Full Head can be worth 2 to 3 times more than a standard strike of the same grade. This is where the real money is made in coin collecting.
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The value isn’t just in the silver; it’s in the artistry. A well-struck 1917-D Type 2 is considered one of the most beautiful coins ever produced by the United States Mint. This aesthetic appeal keeps the 1917-D Standing Liberty Quarter investment value high, even during economic downturns.
Key Factors That Affect Your Coin’s Worth
When determining the price of your 1917-D Type 2 Standing Liberty Quarter, three factors reign supreme: Grade, Eye Appeal, and Mint Mark visibility. Grades are based on a 70-point scale, where 1 is barely identifiable and 70 is perfect. Most coins found in “junk silver” bags are in the G-4 to F-12 range.
| Factor | Impact on Value |
|---|---|
| Luster | High (Uncirculated coins must have it) |
| Surface Marks | Moderate (Scratches lower the grade) |
| Strike Quality | Extreme (Full Head vs Flat Head) |
| Toning | Subjective (Rainbow toning adds value) |
Never clean your coin! Rubbing a 1917-D quarter with a cloth or using chemicals can instantly strip away 50% or more of its value. Collectors prefer “original skin,” which is the natural patina or slight dirt that has accumulated over a century. If you are unsure, use CoinKnow to get an initial assessment before taking it to a dealer.
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Where to Sell and Buy 1917-D Type 2 Quarters
If you decide to sell your 1917-D Type 2, you have several options. Local coin shops are great for quick cash, but they typically pay 20-30% below retail value to ensure they can make a profit. For high-grade coins worth over $500, auction houses like Heritage Auctions or Stacks Bowers are often the best route.
Online marketplaces like eBay can yield high prices, but you must be careful of fees and shipping risks. Always look for “Sold” listings rather than “Asking” prices to see what people are actually paying. The 1917-D Type 2 Standing Liberty Quarter remains a staple of the hobby, and as long as yours is authentic, there will always be a buyer.
Whether you are a seasoned collector or just someone who found a “cool old coin” in an attic, the 1917-D Type 2 represents a fascinating era of American growth and artistic transition. Keeping it safe in a PVC-free plastic holder will ensure its value continues to grow for the next generation.
FAQ
Q: How can I tell the difference between a 1917 Type 1 and Type 2?
A: The easiest way is to look at the eagle on the reverse. The Type 1 has no stars underneath the eagle, while the Type 2 has three stars below the eagle. Also, Lady Liberty on the Type 2 is wearing mail armor on her chest.
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Q: Is the 1917-D Standing Liberty Quarter made of silver?
A: Yes, all Standing Liberty Quarters minted between 1916 and 1930 are composed of 90% silver and 10% copper. They contain approximately 0.1808 ounces of pure silver.
Q: Why is the date often worn off on these quarters?
A: The original Standing Liberty design had the date on a raised pedestal. This caused the date to rub against other coins and surfaces more frequently, wearing it down faster than the rest of the coin. Quarters with clear dates are much more valuable.
Q: What does the “D” mint mark stand for?
A: The “D” stands for the Denver Mint. In 1917, quarters were also minted in Philadelphia (no mint mark) and San Francisco (“S”). The Denver and San Francisco mintages are generally lower and more valuable than the Philadelphia coins.