The 1929-S Standing Liberty Quarter is worth anywhere from $12 in worn condition to over $350 in high-grade mint state. This beautiful silver coin represents the final years of a classic American design, making it a favorite for both casual hobbyists and serious numismatists looking for historical value.
Why the 1929-S Standing Liberty Quarter is a Special Find
Finding a 1929-S Standing Liberty Quarter in your coin jar or an old collection is an exciting moment for any American. Produced at the San Francisco Mint during the last decade of the roaring twenties, this coin features the iconic image of Lady Liberty stepping through a gateway. By 1929, the United States was on the cusp of the Great Depression, which makes these coins a tangible piece of economic history.
If you are unsure whether your coin is a genuine treasure, using the best coin identifier app can help you confirm the date and mint mark in seconds. Many people find that the CoinHix app is particularly useful for identifying the “S” mint mark, which is located to the left of the date. Because the Standing Liberty series is known for dates wearing away easily, having a clear 1929 date significantly helps maintain its market price.
Understanding the Condition and Grading of Your 1929 Quarter
The value of your 1929-S quarter is almost entirely dependent on its physical condition, also known as its “grade.” In the world of coin collecting, we look for specific details like the feathers on the eagle’s breast and the rivets on Liberty’s shield. Coins that have been passed around in pockets for decades will look smooth and flat, while those tucked away in a drawer might still have their original “mint luster” or shine.
For most casual finders, your coin will likely fall into the “Good” or “Fine” categories. However, if you notice that Liberty’s mail coat is still visible and the date is sharp, you could be looking at a much higher payout. You can check the current market trends for 1929-S Standing Liberty Quarter prices in mint state to see how much of a premium uncirculated coins command. Even a small difference in wear can mean a hundred-dollar difference in profit.
Current Market Value Table for 1929-S Standing Liberty Quarters
To give you a better idea of what your coin might be worth at a local coin shop or online auction, here is a breakdown of the estimated values based on the standard grading scale.
| Condition / Grade | Estimated Value |
|---|---|
| Good (G-4) | $12 – $15 |
| Fine (F-12) | $22 – $28 |
| Extremely Fine (XF-40) | $55 – $75 |
| About Uncirculated (AU-50) | $110 – $140 |
| Mint State (MS-63) | $250 – $350+ |
The Full Head Designation and Rare Varieties
When researching your 1929-S Philadelphia and San Francisco coin value, you might encounter the term “Full Head” (FH). This is a special designation given by professional graders to Standing Liberty Quarters where the helmet and hair details on Lady Liberty are exceptionally crisp and fully struck.
A 1929-S quarter with a Full Head is significantly rarer than a standard strike. While a normal uncirculated 1929-S might sell for $300, a “Full Head” version could easily soar toward $1,000 or more at auction. If you think your coin looks abnormally detailed, using a professional tool like CoinHix can provide you with high-resolution comparisons to help you spot these lucrative features. Always handle your coins by the edges to avoid getting finger oils on these delicate surfaces.
Identifying the S Mint Mark and Silver Content
It is important to remember that all Standing Liberty Quarters minted in 1929 are composed of 90% silver and 10% copper. This means that even if the coin is so worn that the design is barely visible, it still holds “melt value” based on the current price of silver. However, the “S” mint mark makes this specific coin more desirable than the common Philadelphia version (which has no mint mark).
The San Francisco Mint produced fewer quarters in 1929 than the main Philadelphia Mint, creating a natural scarcity. To ensure you aren’t leaving money on the table, always verify the mint mark’s authenticity. If you are struggling to see the tiny letter near the date, the CoinHix app’s magnification features can be a lifesaver. Collecting these silver quarters is not just a hobby; for many Americans, it is a way to preserve a piece of 1920s heritage while holding an asset that grows in value over time.
Frequently Asked Questions about the 1929-S Quarter
Q: Where is the mint mark located on a 1929-S Standing Liberty Quarter?
A: The mint mark is located on the obverse (front) of the coin. Look just to the left of the date, near the bottom of the gateway. An “S” indicates it was minted in San Francisco.
Q: Is it okay to clean my 1929-S quarter to make it look more valuable?
A: No, never clean your coins. Collectors prefer the original patina or toning. Cleaning a coin with chemicals or cloths can create microscopic scratches that significantly reduce its numismatic value.
Q: What is the silver weight of a 1929-S quarter?
A: Each quarter contains approximately 0.1808 troy ounces of pure silver. While the collector value is often higher, the silver content provides a “floor” price that fluctuates with the precious metals market.