If you have a jar of old coins collecting dust in your attic, now might be the time to check it. There is one specific coin—the 1898-S Barber Quarter—that could be worth as much as $30,000. You read that right. One of these quarters sold for $20,400 in 2023 at Heritage Auctions, and depending on its condition, it could fetch even more.
This rare 25-cent piece is part of the Barber coinage series, named after its designer, Charles E. Barber. The coin was minted in San Francisco and is known for its historical and artistic value. Although over a million of these coins were struck—1,020,592 to be exact—very few have survived in near-perfect condition. That is what makes the best-preserved ones such hot items in the collector’s world.
How can you identify the 1898-S Barber Quarter?
Wondering if you might have this coin tucked away somewhere? Here is what you should look for:
- Obverse (front): Features the head of Liberty wearing an olive wreath, surrounded by 13 stars, with the motto “IN GOD WE TRUST” along the top.
- Reverse (back): Displays a majestic eagle with outstretched wings. In one claw, the eagle holds arrows; in the other, an olive branch—classic symbols of strength and peace.
- Look for the “S” mint mark, which indicates it was minted in San Francisco.
If your quarter matches these descriptions, especially with that “S” mint mark, you could be holding a coin worth serious cash.
How much is an 1898 barber quarter worth today?
The value of your 1898-S quarter depends mostly on its condition. Most of the high-dollar sales come from coins that have been graded by professional services like PCGS (Professional Coin Grading Service). The higher the grade, the higher the value.
A quarter in circulated condition might only be worth a few hundred dollars. But if it is in mint or near-mint condition, it could be worth thousands. PCGS reports multiple examples still being offered on the market, so interest in this coin is very much alive.
In short, if your coin is clean, shiny, and well-preserved, you may want to get it graded by a professional.
Where can you sell a rare 1898-S quarter?
If you believe you have one of these quarters, your next step is to get it authenticated and appraised. You can turn to reputable auction houses like Heritage Auctions or get it evaluated through a grading service such as PCGS or NGC.
Once verified, you could auction it, sell it to a private collector, or go through a dealer who specializes in rare coins. Just be sure you know its value first—do not rush into selling it without understanding what you might have.
