Discover the timeless beauty and historical significance of this 1917 S Quarter Dollar Standing Liberty Quarter PCGS MS-63 Type 2, a remarkable piece of American numismatic history. This exceptional coin represents one of the most sought-after issues from the Standing Liberty Quarter series, combining outstanding artistry, scarcity, and investment potential for collectors and bullion enthusiasts alike.

About the Standing Liberty Quarter

The Standing Liberty Quarter, minted from 1916 to 1930, stands as one of the most aesthetically pleasing coins ever produced by the United States Mint. Designed by renowned sculptor Hermon Atkins MacNeil, this quarter revolutionized American coinage with its dynamic composition and bold allegorical imagery. The coin's artistic merit and historical context make it a cornerstone of any serious numismatic collection.

The Standing Liberty Quarter was created to replace the Barber Quarter, which had been in production since 1892. MacNeil's design brought a fresh, modern aesthetic to American currency, incorporating classical themes that resonated with early 20th-century artistic sensibilities. The quarter quickly gained recognition for its distinctive appearance and became a favorite among collectors and the general public.

Type 2 Specifications and Variations

The Type 2 Standing Liberty Quarter represents the second and final design variation of this classic series. Type 2 coins were minted from 1917 through 1930 and feature several important modifications from the original Type 1 design, which was only produced briefly in 1916.

Key differences between Type 2 and Type 1 include:

• Protective Recessed Liberty - The bare right breast of Liberty was modified, with a mail-like breastplate added to address public concern about the design's perceived indecency
• Redesigned Reverse - The eagle's shield features three lines beneath it, differentiating it from the Type 1 design
• Enhanced Durability - The Type 2 design was engineered to withstand circulation better than its predecessor
• Slightly Altered Proportions - Liberty's figure was adjusted for improved aesthetic balance

The 1917-S Mint Mark Significance

This particular coin bears the coveted "S" mint mark, indicating it was struck at the San Francisco Mint during 1917. The 1917-S Quarter holds special significance within the Standing Liberty Quarter series for several compelling reasons.

San Francisco Mint quarters from 1917 represent a particularly important production year. The United States was actively involved in World War I, and precious metal coinage production was closely monitored and restricted. The "S" mint mark coins from this period are generally scarcer than their Philadelphia counterparts, making them highly desirable to collectors seeking key-date issues.

The mintage figures for 1917-S quarters make this issue a significant find for numismatists. While not the absolute rarest date in the series, the 1917-S remains a formidable acquisition that commands respect in the numismatic marketplace due to its limited production run and historical context.

PCGS MS-63 Certification and Grading

This coin has been expertly graded and certified by PCGS (Professional Coin Grading Service), one of the most respected and recognized third-party grading companies in the numismatic industry. The MS-63 grade indicates that this quarter is in Choice Uncirculated condition.

An MS-63 grade signifies the following characteristics:

• Uncirculated Status - The coin has never been in circulation and retains its original mint luster
• Minimal Wear - There are no signs of handling wear on the high points of the design
• Minor Imperfections - The coin may display light bag marks or minor surface blemishes, typical of coins that were briefly handled during the minting and packaging process
• Strong Eye Appeal - Despite minor imperfections, the coin maintains excellent visual presentation
• Well-Preserved Strike - The design elements are sharply defined with good detail throughout

PCGS certification provides buyers with confidence and authenticity assurance. The third-party grading process involves rigorous examination by professional numismatists who assess every aspect of the coin's condition, including strike quality, luster, toning, and any surface imperfections. This certification ensures that your investment is protected and verifiable.

Historical Context of 1917 America

The year 1917 holds tremendous historical significance for the United States. This was the year America entered World War I, marking a pivotal moment in both American and world history. The nation's economic resources were being mobilized for the war effort, which directly impacted coinage production and precious metal allocation.

During this period, the United States Mint operated under strict government oversight, with precious metal coinage carefully rationed and monitored. The decisions made about which mints would produce quarters and in what quantities were influenced by the demands of wartime production. San Francisco Mint production during 1917 reflects these historical constraints and priorities.

Artistic Elements and Design Details

The obverse (front) of the Standing Liberty Quarter features a stunning rendering of Liberty in profile, standing with her left foot slightly forward. She wears a classical Greek-inspired helmet and a flowing robe, embodying the ideals of freedom and strength that the United States represented.

Liberty's right hand is raised in a protective gesture, while her left hand holds an olive branch—a symbol of peace. This composition conveys both strength and the desire for peaceful resolution, making it one of the most thoughtfully designed coins in American history.

The reverse side depicts an American eagle in flight, carrying an olive branch in its talons. The eagle is shown against a shield with horizontal lines, emphasizing both national protection and unity. The eagle's dynamic pose and carefully rendered feathers demonstrate MacNeil's mastery of sculptural detail.

Rarity and Collector Appeal

Standing Liberty Quarters have become increasingly sought after by numismatists and collectors worldwide. The series' combination of artistic merit, historical significance, and limited mintages makes individual coins highly desirable acquisitions.

The 1917-S in MS-63 condition occupies a sweet spot in the market—it's rare enough to be genuinely scarce, yet affordable enough to be accessible to serious collectors. Higher grade examples become exponentially rarer and more expensive, making this MS-63 specimen a smart choice for those seeking quality without the premium prices associated with MS-65 and above.

Type 2 examples, in particular, appeal to collectors who want to own both design variants of the Standing Liberty Quarter series. Building a complete set requires dedication and investment, as key dates and mint mark combinations command significant premiums.

Investment and Numismatic Potential

Beyond their aesthetic and historical appeal, Standing Liberty Quarters have demonstrated solid investment potential over the decades. As precious metals maintain their value and the rarity of high-grade examples becomes more pronounced, these coins continue to appreciate in value.

The certified status of this 1917-S Quarter adds significant value compared to uncertified examples. Professional grading and encapsulation provide assurance to potential future buyers and maintain the coin's protected condition for decades to come.

Product Specifications

• Coin Type: Standing Liberty Quarter, Type 2
• Year of Minting: 1917
• Mint Mark: S (San Francisco Mint)
• Metal Composition: 90% Silver, 10% Copper
• Weight: 6.25 grams
• Diameter: 24.26 millimeters
• Condition Grade: MS-63 (Choice Uncirculated)
• Grading Service: PCGS (Professional Coin Grading Service)
• Designer: Hermon Atkins MacNeil
• Face Value: $0.25 USD
• Rarity: Scarce Key Date

Condition Guarantee and Authentication

This coin comes with the full backing of PCGS certification, which guarantees authenticity and condition accuracy. The PCGS encapsulation holder protects the coin from environmental damage while allowing for easy viewing and display of this beautiful numismatic specimen.

The clear acrylic holder used by PCGS is designed to preserve the coin's condition while providing tamper-evident security. The label includes all relevant information, including the grade, date, mint mark, and a unique certification number that can be verified on the PCGS website.

Perfect for Collectors and Investors

Whether you are an experienced numismatist seeking to complete your Standing Liberty Quarter collection, a history enthusiast interested in early 20th-century American coinage, or an investor diversifying your precious metals portfolio, this 1917-S PCGS MS-63 Type 2 Standing Liberty Quarter represents an exceptional opportunity.

Add this remarkable piece of American numismatic history to your collection today and own a tangible connection to America's rich cultural heritage and artistic tradition. This standing liberty quarter is more than just legal tender—it's a work of art, a historical artifact, and a sound investment all in one exquisite package.