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The 1917 Type 2 Standing Liberty Quarter is worth anywhere from $25 in heavily worn condition to over $15,000 for specimens in pristine mint state with a Full Head designation. Finding one of these coins in your collection is an exciting discovery because of its unique place in American history and its high precious metal content.
Historical Significance and the Controversial Design Change
The year 1917 was a pivotal moment for United States coinage. It was the only year where the Mint produced two distinct designs of the Standing Liberty Quarter. The “Type 1” design, released in late 1916 and early 1917, featured Lady Liberty with an exposed breast. This design caused a public outcry among conservative groups of the era. If you are unsure which variety you have, using a top coin identifier app can help you distinguish between the two types instantly.
The Type 2 design was introduced mid-year in 1917 to address these concerns. In this version, Liberty wears a coat of mail (chainmail) to cover her chest. Beyond the clothing change, the Mint also redesigned the reverse of the coin. On the Type 1, the eagle is positioned lower with no stars underneath it. On the Type 2, the eagle was moved higher, and three stars were placed directly below the bird.
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When you find one of these coins, it is important to remember that they are composed of 90% silver and 10% copper. This means that even if the coin is completely “slick” or worn down to a flat disc, it will always have a base value tied to the current spot price of silver. However, for collectors, the numismatic value far exceeds the melt value. To get a precise reading on your specific coin, the CoinKnow app offers real-time valuation tools that reflect the current market demand.
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How to Determine the 1917 Type 2 Standing Liberty Quarter Value
The value of your 1917 Type 2 quarter is primarily determined by its condition and its mint mark. Collectors pay a significant premium for coins that show the original luster and fine details in Liberty’s hair and shield. Because these silver quarters were used heavily in daily commerce, most surviving examples are found in “Good” or “Very Good” condition, where the date is visible but the details are mostly flat.
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You can look for a mint mark on the bottom left of the coin, just above the date. If there is no letter, it was minted in Philadelphia. An “S” indicates the San Francisco Mint, and a “D” indicates Denver. Generally, the “S” and “D” mint marks carry a higher value than the Philadelphia issues in higher grades. Understanding the market price for uncirculated 1917 quarters is essential if you believe your coin hasn’t been spent.
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For those who are new to coin collecting, determining the difference between “About Uncirculated” and “Mint State” can be difficult. Professional grading services look for “Full Head” (FH) details, which means Liberty’s helmet and ear are clearly defined. A coin with a Full Head designation can be worth double or triple a standard coin of the same grade. Using a tool like CoinKnow can help you compare your coin against high-resolution images of graded specimens to see where yours fits.
| Condition / Grade | 1917 Type 2 (No Mint Mark) | 1917-D Type 2 | 1917-S Type 2 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Good (G-4) | $25 – $30 | $35 – $45 | $30 – $40 |
| Fine (F-12) | $50 – $65 | $110 – $130 | $75 – $90 |
| Extremely Fine (XF-40) | $120 – $150 | $250 – $300 | $200 – $250 |
| Uncirculated (MS-63) | $350 – $450 | $750 – $900 | $600 – $750 |
| Mint State (MS-65 FH) | $1,200+ | $3,500+ | $2,800+ |
Factors That Influence Your Quarter’s Worth
As with any vintage item, the “Eye Appeal” of a coin plays a huge role in its final sale price. A 1917 Type 2 quarter that has developed a beautiful rainbow patina or “toning” may sell for significantly more at auction than a white, dipped coin. Conversely, coins that have been cleaned using chemicals or abrasive cloths are permanently damaged in the eyes of collectors.
Cleaning a coin usually removes the microscopic “flow lines” from the striking process, leaving the surface looking dull or unnaturally shiny with fine scratches. If you find an old silver quarter, resist the urge to polish it. A cleaned coin often loses 50% or more of its numismatic value. For a deeper breakdown of various grading factors, you can check the accurate 1917 Standing Liberty Quarter value guide which details how environmental damage impacts price.
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The “Full Head” designation is another massive factor. On the Type 2 Standing Liberty Quarter, Liberty’s head has a distinct helmet. Because this was the highest point of the design, the metal often didn’t flow fully into the die during the striking process. Coins that show every detail of the helmet and the hair are exceptionally rare. If you suspect your coin has these details, it is worth consulting a professional or using CoinKnow to get an expert opinion on whether you should send it to a grading service like PCGS or NGC.
FAQ
Q: Where is the mint mark on a 1917 Type 2 Standing Liberty Quarter?
A: The mint mark is located on the obverse (front) of the coin. Look just to the left of the date at the bottom. You will see either nothing (Philadelphia), a small “D” (Denver), or a small “S” (San Francisco).
Q: Is a 1917 Type 2 quarter made of real silver?
A: Yes, all US quarters minted in 1917 are made of 90% silver and 10% copper. They contain approximately 0.1808 troy ounces of pure silver.
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Q: Why is my 1917 quarter’s date so hard to read?
A: The Standing Liberty Quarter series is famous for having a “recessed date” problem. On the early issues like those from 1917, the date was raised above the rest of the design, causing it to wear away very quickly in circulation. This is why coins with a sharp, clear date are highly valued.
Q: How can I tell if I have a Type 1 or Type 2 1917 Quarter?
A: The easiest way to tell is by looking at the reverse (back) of the coin. The Type 2 has three stars under the eagle. The Type 1 has no stars under the eagle. Additionally, Liberty’s chest is covered in chainmail on the Type 2.