The Standing Liberty Quarter was minted from 1916 to 1930 and is a fascinating piece of American numismatic history. Early in its production, the coin underwent a high-profile redesign, resulting in two distinct types known as Type 1 and Type 2.
Historical Context of Type 1 and Type 2 Standing Liberty Quarters
Origins of the Redesign
The Standing Liberty Quarter was introduced to replace the Barber Quarter as part of a broader push to modernize U.S. coinage after 25 years of stagnation. MacNeil’s original concept featured a militaristic Liberty who was bold, unarmored, and symbolized peace through strength. MacNeil envisioned Liberty in a classical pose, drawing on Greek artistic traditions.
The Covered Breast Controversy
The Type 1 design debuted with Liberty’s exposed breast, which some claimed sparked public outrage. However, no documented complaints or official records confirm this. Most historians agree that cultural conservatism and wartime pressures influenced the decision to revise the design. Thanks to a special act of Congress in 1917, MacNeil was allowed to revise his own design. The redesign covered Liberty in chain mail, introduced additional stars, and repositioned the eagle.
Wartime Symbolism and Design Finalization
The updates to Liberty’s appearance reflected a nation readying for war. The chain mail conveyed more than modesty. It conveyed defense and vigilance. The series was discontinued in 1930 and replaced in 1932 by the Washington Quarter, honoring George Washington’s 200th birthday.
Type 1 Standing Liberty Quarter (1916–1917)
Obverse Design Details
- Liberty’s Pose: Standing in a gateway, olive branch in right hand, shield marked “LIBERTY” in left
- Exposed Breast: A bold symbol of purity and freedom
- No Stars on the obverse
Reverse Imagery and Symbolism
- Eagle in Flight: Flying low, with outstretched wings
- 13 Stars: Represent the original colonies
Type 2 Standing Liberty Quarter (1917–1930)
Obverse Design Changes
- Covered Breast: Chain mail added for modesty and symbolism of protection
- Refined Shield and Olive Branch: Subtle detail improvements
Reverse Design Revisions
- Higher-Flying Eagle: More dynamic and in an elevated position
- Three Extra Stars: Added below the eagle for balance
Driven by a combination of aesthetic concerns, social norms, and technical refinements, the Type 2 redesign remains one of the most discussed changes in U.S. coinage.
Mintage Data & Key Dates
Type 1 Standing Liberty Quarters
- 1916 (Philadelphia): Only 52,000 struck
- 1917:
- Philadelphia: 8,740,000
- Denver: 1,509,200
- San Francisco: 1,952,000
Type 2 Standing Liberty Quarters
- 1917-S: 5,522,000 minted post-redesign
- 1918/7-S Overdate: Scarce variety
- 1921 (Philadelphia): Low mintage of 1,916,000
Standing Liberty Quarter Type 1 vs. Type 2
| Feature | Type 1 (1916–Early 1917) | Type 2 (Mid 1917–1930) |
| Liberty’s Breast | Exposed (purity/freedom) | Covered with chain mail (modesty/defense) |
| Shield & Olive Branch | Present, original detail | Slightly refined |
| Reverse Eagle | Flying low | Flying higher |
| Stars on Reverse | 13 stars | 13 + 3 below eagle |
| Production Years | 1916–early 1917 | Mid 1917–1930 |
| Full Head Availability | More common (better strikes) | Less common (inconsistent strikes) |
| Symbolism | Classical liberty, peace stance | Preparedness, wartime symbolism |
| Collectability | Scarce, higher premiums in FH | Collectible, some high-demand dates |
Condition & Grading Insights
Full Head Grading Criteria
| Type | Full Head (FH) Criteria |
| Type 1 | Clear cap outline, distinct separation from hair cord |
| Type 2 | Three helmet leaves, defined ear hole, full helmet contour |
High-Wear Areas
Liberty’s head, shield, and the eagle’s wings are primary grading zones
Contemporary Relevance & Market Trends
Auction Highlights
- Type 1 Full Head designated coins often reach premium prices
- 1916 issues command five-figure results in grades AU-50 and above.
Tips for Collectors
- Start Simple: A type set with one of each design offers a rich introduction
- Look for Full Head Designation: These bring premium prices and showcase the design best
Hermon A. MacNeil’s Liberty is often compared to Athena, the Greek goddess of wisdom and war. Her stance, shield, and drapery reflect neoclassical influences prominent in early 20th-century U.S. art. This design lineage links the Standing Liberty Quarter to other masterpieces of the era, such as the Walking Liberty Half Dollar and Peace Dollar—all coins that elevated symbolism and style into national identity.
The Standing Liberty Quarter tells the story of a changing America. Its transition from Type 1 to Type 2 reflects shifts in national sentiment, artistic interpretation, and Mint policy during a pivotal era. Whether you’re drawn to Type 1’s classical boldness or Type 2’s refined imagery, the Standing Liberty Quarter remains a powerful artifact of American numismatic artistry.
