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The Certified Seated Liberty Quarter 1865 XF45 NGC is a beautifully preserved, high-end circulated example of an important Civil War-era coin from one of the United States' most iconic 19th-century series. Graded Extremely Fine 45 by Numismatic Guaranty Company (NGC), this coin retains sharp detail in all major design elements with light, honest wear on the high points and smooth, problem-free surfaces. The 1865 Seated Liberty quarter is especially appealing for its historical context, having been struck during the final year of the American Civil War, making it not only a collectible coin but also a tangible artifact of national significance.
The Seated Liberty quarter design was introduced in 1838 and remained in production until 1891. Created by Chief Engraver Christian Gobrecht, the design was part of a broader movement toward classical motifs in American coinage and was used across several denominations, including the half dime, dime, half dollar, and dollar. The series underwent several modifications during its lifespan, including changes to the motto and weight standard. By 1865, the design included the motto “IN GOD WE TRUST” on the reverse—added beginning in 1866—but 1865 quarters were still produced without it, making this coin one of the final issues of the pre-motto type.
The obverse features a seated figure of Liberty facing left, draped in flowing classical robes and holding a Union shield with her right hand while supporting a liberty pole topped with a Phrygian cap in her left. Thirteen stars arc above her, and the date “1865” appears at the bottom. In XF45 condition, Liberty’s figure remains sharply outlined, with significant detail in her facial features, gown folds, and shield. Light wear is visible on the highest points, such as Liberty’s knee, breast, and cap, but the coin retains strong central definition and pleasing overall detail. The fields are generally smooth, and the rims are well-defined, giving the coin a strong visual presence.
The reverse displays an American eagle with spread wings, holding arrows in its left claw and an olive branch in its right—a traditional representation of military readiness and peaceful intent. A shield covers the eagle’s chest, and the inscription “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” surrounds the top rim, with “QUAR. DOL.” inscribed below. In 1865, the reverse still lacked the “IN GOD WE TRUST” motto, which was not added until the following year. In XF45 condition, the eagle’s feathers, especially those on the wings and legs, remain visible, though lightly worn. The shield lines are partially softened from circulation, but the overall relief remains crisp. The coin’s silver surfaces show even, natural wear and may display attractive toning in light gray or golden hues.
The 1865 Seated Liberty quarter was struck at the Philadelphia Mint, the only U.S. mint operating quarter production that year. With a total mintage of just 58,800 coins, it is one of the lowest-mintage issues of the entire Seated Liberty quarter series. This low production reflects the ongoing effects of the Civil War, during which silver coins were hoarded and rarely seen in circulation. As a result, most 1865 quarters circulated for many years and are scarce in high grades today. Even modestly worn examples are in demand among both type collectors and those building date sets within the series.
NGC’s certification of this coin as XF45 ensures that it is authentic and accurately graded, a valuable assurance for collectors given the age and rarity of the piece. The XF45 grade places it at the upper end of circulated coinage, offering strong detail with just enough wear to distinguish it from an About Uncirculated coin. These examples often strike the perfect balance between affordability and detail, making them ideal for collectors who want visually appealing historical coins without the steep premiums of Mint State specimens.
As an issue from 1865, this coin carries significant historical weight. It was struck during the final year of the Civil War—the same year that saw the surrender at Appomattox, the assassination of President Abraham Lincoln, and the beginning of the Reconstruction era. Few coins better represent this pivotal moment in U.S. history, and owning a Seated Liberty quarter from this date offers a direct connection to the economic and political circumstances of the time. Coins like this circulated alongside paper “greenbacks,” war tokens, and hoarded hard money, giving them a role not only as currency but as survivors of a nation at war with itself.
The coin is composed of 90% silver and 10% copper, with a standard weight of 6.22 grams and a diameter of 24.3 mm. Like all Philadelphia Mint coins of this era, it bears no mintmark. Well-struck and preserved examples, such as this XF45 coin, are relatively scarce compared to other dates in the series, and most surviving pieces are in lower grades or show signs of damage, cleaning, or harsh wear. This example, certified and graded by a trusted third-party service, offers a well-preserved, original piece with excellent eye appeal for the grade.
Collectors of U.S. type coins, Civil War-era issues, or complete Seated Liberty quarter date sets will find this coin especially desirable. It represents the closing chapter of the pre-motto reverse type and a moment of national transition. Whether displayed individually or as part of a broader historical narrative, the 1865 Seated Liberty quarter provides beauty, rarity, and storytelling power in equal measure.
The Certified Seated Liberty Quarter 1865 XF45 NGC is a classic example of 19th-century American silver coinage. It combines strong strike detail, historical depth, and expert preservation to offer collectors a meaningful and visually pleasing addition to any collection. With its low mintage, Civil War pedigree, and elegant design, this coin stands as a powerful artifact from one of the most transformative periods in American history.