1897 (S) Barber Quarter
Strike Type
Coin Details
Value Estimates
Values as of May 2026 — estimates reflect typical grades (G-4 through MS-63). Coins in lower or exceptional grades may fall outside this range.
Auction Record
$47,000 MS67+ 09-08-2022 Legend Rare Coin Auctions
Description
The 1897 (S) Barber Quarter is a quarter produced at the San Francisco Mint as part of the Barber Quarters 1892-1916 series. With a mintage of 542,229, this is a less common issue — the lowest mintage among 3 mint variants, representing only 5% of total production. The obverse features Liberty facing right wearing a Phrygian cap topped by a laurel wreath, with the word LIBERTY on a headband and the reverse displays a heraldic eagle with shield on breast, olive branch and arrows in talons, with a banner reading E PLURIBUS UNUM. The 1897-S is a semi-key date. New Orleans production was modest this year. Struck at the San Francisco Mint, established during the California Gold Rush and now primarily producing proof and collector coins. Estimated market value ranges from $155 to $2.9K depending on grade and condition. Struck in 90% silver, 10% copper, weighing 6.3 grams, 24.3 mm in diameter, with a reeded edge. Cataloged as PCGS #5618.
