Based on the information you provided, here is a breakdown of the coin’s characteristics and an estimate of its value.
Coin Description Breakdown
- Year: 1856
- Coin Type: Seated Liberty Quarter
- Grade: ANACS VG10 Details
- Details/Damage: Edge & Rim Damaged, Scratched (specifically noted on the eagle’s neck).
- Key Features:
- The “Details” grade indicates that while the coin’s wear level is consistent with a VG10 grade, it has been negatively affected by the noted damage.
- The coin has a “cameo effect” on both sides, which is an aesthetic quality often sought after by collectors, even on circulated coins.
- It retains “plenty of detail for the grade,” and is “aesthetically very pleasing overall,” which suggests that despite the technical damage, the coin’s overall appearance is strong for a “details” coin.
Understanding “VG10 Details”
A grade of “Very Good 10” (VG10) on the Sheldon scale means the coin has moderate wear.1 For a Seated Liberty Quarter, this typically means:
- The coin’s rims are full.
- Most of the lettering is readable, though some letters may be weak.
- The design is worn throughout.2
- The word “LIBERTY” on the shield may be visible, but likely very weak.
The “Details” grade is a notation used by grading services like ANACS, PCGS, and NGC to indicate that a coin has a problem—such as damage, cleaning, or scratching—that prevents it from receiving a “straight” numerical grade. While the coin has the wear of a VG10, the damage means it won’t sell for the full price of a problem-free VG10 coin.
Estimated Value
Valuing a coin with damage is difficult because its value is highly subjective and depends on the severity of the damage and the buyer’s tolerance. The value will be less than a “problem-free” coin of the same grade.
Based on general market data for 1856 Seated Liberty Quarters and similar “details” graded coins, a rough value range would be:
- Average Value for a Problem-Free VG (VG8-VG10) 1856 Quarter: $40-$50.
- Value for your “Details” Graded Coin: Given the scratches and other damage, the coin’s value is likely to be $15-$40. The “cameo effect” and “pleasing overall” appearance you describe could push it toward the higher end of this range for the right buyer.
Disclaimer: These are general estimates and the actual value can vary significantly based on the specific mint mark (e.g., San Francisco “S” mint marks are more valuable), current market conditions, and the platform where it is being sold (e.g., online auction vs. a local coin dealer).
