Rare 1928 US Quarter Value & Price Guide

What makes a 1928 United States quarter so valuable? Understanding this coin's historical significance and potential worth.

A 1928 United States quarter is a circulating coin minted in the United States during the 1920s. These coins feature a design reflecting the artistic styles of the era. They possess a historical value that extends beyond their face value.

The value of a 1928 quarter hinges on several factors. Mint state, meaning the coin's condition with no wear, significantly elevates its worth. Errors in minting, such as misaligned designs or unusual metal compositions, can render a coin highly collectible. The coin's rarity, especially of certain mints or varieties, plays a role in determining its value. The historical context of the 1920s, a period of significant societal and economic change, adds another layer of interest. Numismatists and collectors often evaluate such coins based on these factors, alongside prevailing market trends and demand.

Moving forward, a deeper exploration of coin collecting, the history of US currency, and the factors affecting 1928 quarter values will follow.

1928 US Quarter

Understanding the 1928 US quarter requires examining its key characteristics, from design to condition, and its place in American numismatic history.

• Design
• Condition
• Rarity
• Mint Mark
• Circulation
• Historical Context
• Value
• Collectibility

The 1928 quarter's design, reflecting art styles of the era, significantly impacts its appeal. Condition, from mint state to heavily worn, directly correlates with value. Rarity, influenced by mintage figures, and mint marks further shape worth. Circulation history provides insight into the coin's exposure and wear. The historical context of the 1920s impacts its value and cultural significance. Value depends on condition, rarity, and demand. Collectibility arises from design, historical significance, and inherent appeal. These factors, intertwined, determine the 1928 quarter's worth in the numismatic market. For instance, a high-grade, rare, and historically significant 1928 quarter can command a much higher price than a common, circulated specimen.

1. Design

The design of a 1928 US quarter reflects the artistic trends and aesthetic sensibilities of the era. Understanding the design elements is crucial to appreciating the coin's historical significance and potential value.

• Obverse Design:
  

  The obverse (heads side) of the 1928 quarter depicts the classic portrait of Liberty. Variations in the artist's style, sculpting techniques, and specific details of the portrait contribute to the coin's visual appeal and identification. Differences in the portrayal of Liberty over various years or across different mints impact the coin's overall design and historical value. The portrait's features, the engraver's hand, and minute details contribute to the artistic aspect of the design and play a role in the coin's desirability to collectors.

• Reverse Design:
  

  The reverse (tails side) depicts an allegorical representation of the United States or other artistic or historical figures of the time. Design elements on the reverse, such as symbols, figures, and the overall arrangement of the image, contribute significantly to the coin's overall aesthetic and impact its collectible value. Variations in the style of these elements, their arrangement on the coin, and minute details contribute to a deeper understanding of artistic choices in 1928 US coinage.

• Coin Metal:
  

  The composition of the coin, specifically the alloy used in its creation, plays a role in the overall appearance and permanence of the design. Variations in metal purity or composition through different mints can impact the coin's visual properties and, over time, how the design is preserved or affected by tarnish or wear. This understanding of the coin's physical characteristics is important when assessing its condition and value.

• Engraver's Style:
  

  The engraver's distinctive style is evident in the execution and detail of the design. Different engravers have varied styles, and the style of the engraver contributing to the particular 1928 quarter contributes to its unique visual qualities and the appreciation of the coin's artistic merit by numismatists. This nuance adds depth and further helps to contextualize the coin's artistic and historical significance.

The interplay of these design elementsobverse and reverse imagery, coin metal, and the engraver's stylecreates the unique aesthetic of a 1928 US quarter. Collectors and analysts seek these specific qualities and features to appreciate the artistic and historical value embedded in these details and recognize potential variations or subtleties in the 1928 US quarter's design characteristics.

2. Condition

Condition plays a critical role in determining the value of a 1928 US quarter. The degree of wear, damage, or preservation directly impacts a coin's desirability to collectors. Appreciating different grades and their implications for value is essential to understanding this coin's worth.

• Mint State (MS):
  

  A mint state coin exhibits no signs of wear. This category encompasses various grades, each defining the degree of pristine condition. Uncirculated coins, often exhibiting a brilliant luster, fall under this category. Such coins, due to their exceptional preservation, command significantly higher values than those with signs of wear. These coins present a pristine reflection of the 1928 design and are highly sought after by collectors.

• Circulated (UNC to Good):
  

  Coins in circulated grades have undergone some degree of handling and wear during circulation. The grades vary from uncirculated (UNC), showing minimal wear, to good, indicating more significant handling. While not as valuable as mint state coins, these circulated specimens still hold historical and aesthetic value, reflecting the coin's use and passage through time. Collectors seeking a more realistic representation of the era may appreciate these coins more highly.

• Damaged Coins:
  

  Coins with significant damage, such as dents, scratches, or gouges, lose value. The extent of damage and its impact on the coin's aesthetics and functionality significantly affect its price. Restoration attempts might also influence the coin's value, depending on the methods employed and their impact on the coin's integrity.

• Grading Services:
  

  Professional coin grading services evaluate and assign grades to coins. These services provide a standardized way to assess condition, helping collectors and dealers assess the worth of a 1928 quarter accurately. Specialized knowledge, tools, and methodologies used in grading are crucial in determining the precise condition of the coin and establish a reliable comparative valuation.

Careful evaluation of condition, considering various grades and damage levels, is crucial for accurately assessing the 1928 quarter's worth. The interplay of design elements and condition ultimately shapes a coin's allure and value within the numismatic market, making a deep understanding of different grades essential to comprehending this coin's overall significance. Collectors prioritize not only the coin's age and design but also its condition, adding another layer of complexity and nuance to its value proposition.

3. Rarity

Rarity, a key determinant in the value of a 1928 US quarter, stems from the limited number of coins produced. Factors influencing this scarcity, such as mintage figures, specific mint locations, and potential errors, significantly impact a coin's desirability and market value. Understanding these aspects provides crucial insight into appreciating these historical pieces.

• Mintage Figures:
  

  The total number of 1928 quarters minted at various US mints directly influences rarity. Lower mintages for particular dates or mints translate to higher rarity and, subsequently, potential higher value. Specific mints might produce coins with differing characteristics, adding another layer to their rarity. Studying mintage figures for different mints is critical in assessing a 1928 quarter's potential value.

• Mint Locations:
  

  Mints located in different cities or states, each with distinct characteristics and production runs, contribute to variations in rarity. A 1928 quarter from a less-active mint during this period might have a lower mintage and hence higher rarity. Identifying the mint mark on the coin is essential to determining its production location and the potential impact on its rarity and value.

• Minting Errors:
  

  Errors during the minting process, such as misaligned designs or unusual metal compositions, can create exceptionally rare coins. Such errors, although often unintentional, significantly increase the rarity of a 1928 quarter and can lead to substantial premiums in the market. Collectors actively seek out and appreciate these errors as highly valuable historical artifacts.

• Conditions Affecting Production:
  

  Economic or political events, disruptions in manufacturing, and other external factors can sometimes affect production figures and quality control, potentially influencing the rarity of a 1928 quarter. Investigating historical records, including government documents or reports, allows researchers to assess the context surrounding the 1928 quarter's production run and how it might influence its overall rarity.

The interplay of mintage, mint locations, minting errors, and production circumstances creates a complex tapestry of rarity. Appreciating these nuances in the 1928 quarter contributes to the comprehension of its historical context and its value proposition within the numismatic market. A well-researched understanding of these facets empowers a keen appreciation of the coin's historical and collectible significance.

4. Mint Mark

A mint mark on a 1928 US quarter signifies the specific mint where the coin was produced. Identifying the mint mark is crucial for evaluating a coin's rarity and potential value. Different mints had varying levels of production and characteristics. This detailed understanding provides insight into the coin's provenance and historical context.

• Significance of Mint Marks:
  

  Mint marks serve as identifiers, allowing numismatists to trace the coin's origin. This information is vital in determining production numbers and regional variations. A mint mark on a 1928 quarter can considerably affect its value, especially if associated with a lower mintage or a specific minting error.

• Common Mint Marks:
  

  Common mint marks on 1928 quarters include "D" for Denver, "S" for San Francisco, and "P" for Philadelphia. Understanding these abbreviations is fundamental to recognizing the specific mint of origin. Each mint had its production techniques, potentially leading to slight variations in the coins' appearance or condition. For instance, a 1928 quarter with an "S" mint mark might exhibit stylistic variations or metal composition that distinguishes it from a "D" or "P" variety.

• Rarity and Value:
  

  The scarcity of coins from certain mints can significantly enhance their value. Lower mintage figures for a particular mint mark, coupled with a desirable condition, create a higher demand from collectors. This demand directly correlates with the price a collector might be willing to pay for a 1928 quarter with a specific mint mark. Therefore, an understanding of the relationship between the mint mark and rarity is essential to valuing these coins accurately.

• Impact on Collectibility:
  

  Mint marks affect the coin's collectibility by providing an additional layer of interest and identification. Collectors seeking specific varieties, such as rare mint marks or those showcasing particular minting nuances, drive demand and value for these coins. This appreciation of the historical significance behind each mint mark underscores the coin's place within the broader numismatic community.

In summary, the mint mark on a 1928 US quarter offers detailed information regarding the coin's production. This detail, when combined with considerations of condition and rarity, enables a comprehensive evaluation of the coin's overall value. Therefore, understanding the mint mark becomes integral to appreciating the significance and historical context of this coin.

5. Circulation

The circulation history of a 1928 US quarter significantly impacts its value and desirability. Extensive circulation often leads to wear and tear, diminishing the coin's aesthetic appeal and collectible worth. Conversely, a coin's avoidance of circulation, preserving its original condition, dramatically increases its value. The interaction between the coin's intended use as currency and its eventual status as a collectible item forms a crucial aspect of understanding its worth.

A well-circulated 1928 quarter might exhibit significant wear, including scratches, dents, and discoloration. These marks, while lessening the coin's numismatic value compared to a mint state example, provide a tangible link to the coin's historical context. A coin frequently handled in commerce reflects the societal patterns and economic realities of its era. Conversely, a 1928 quarter that remained in mint state, having never entered circulation, carries a much higher premium due to its exceptional preservation. Its pristine condition reflects a unique historical narrative, emphasizing the coin's lack of exposure to the everyday wear and tear of commerce. Differences in preservation directly translate into different values, highlighting the profound influence of circulation on the coin's overall appeal to collectors.

Understanding the relationship between circulation and a 1928 quarter's value is essential for both collectors and researchers. Collectors need to assess the coin's grade accurately to determine its potential worth, considering the degree of wear and tear resulting from its circulation history. Historical researchers can utilize circulation patterns to understand economic activity and public behavior during the period. By correlating circulation with historical events, researchers can gain insights into how the coin's status as currency interacted with larger societal developments. The relationship between circulation and value underscores the dynamic interaction between a coin's function as currency and its appreciation as a historical artifact.

6. Historical Context

The historical context surrounding the 1928 US quarter provides critical background for understanding its significance beyond its face value. The economic and social conditions of the 1920s, reflected in the coin's design, production, and circulation, profoundly impact its value and appeal to collectors.

• Economic Conditions of the 1920s:
  

  The roaring twenties, characterized by economic prosperity and consumerism, influenced the design, production, and perceived value of the 1928 quarter. The societal optimism and burgeoning wealth of the era impacted the coin's initial circulation and later, its appeal to collectors seeking tangible representations of this period. Analyzing the economic trends of the time helps contextualize the quarter's value relative to the purchasing power of the era.

• Artistic and Design Trends:
  

  The artistic styles of the 1920s are reflected in the design of the 1928 quarter. Evaluating these trends, including the dominant aesthetic movements and prominent artists of the era, provides insight into the coin's cultural significance. A nuanced understanding of the artistic context broadens the appreciation for the quarter's design elements and their representation of the period's aesthetics.

• Social and Political Landscape:
  

  The sociopolitical environment of the 1920s shaped the broader economic and cultural context. Understanding these nuances provides a comprehensive picture of the era. For instance, evaluating the changing social norms, political viewpoints, or major events helps to understand the cultural and historical forces surrounding the 1928 quarter's production and use as currency.

• Minting Practices and Technologies:
  

  The technologies and practices used in minting the 1928 quarter provide insight into the industrial capabilities and logistical aspects of the era. Examining the quality control mechanisms, the procedures of production, and the materials used for the coin adds another layer of insight into the historical context, understanding the limitations and advancements that influenced the coin's production and quality.

In conclusion, comprehending the historical context of the 1928 US quarter encompassing economic conditions, artistic trends, social and political landscapes, and minting practicesprovides a multifaceted perspective on the coin's value, both as currency and as a historical artifact. This understanding enhances the appreciation for the coin's design, its context in the era, and its enduring appeal to collectors. These historical components further shape the 1928 quarter's position as a tangible reminder of a significant period in American history.

7. Value

The value of a 1928 US quarter transcends its face value. Determining its worth involves a multifaceted analysis encompassing several key factors. Condition, rarity, and market demand all contribute to the overall value proposition. A pristine, rare 1928 quarter, for instance, commands a significantly higher price than a common, worn example. This stems from the inherent scarcity and desirability of such a piece, recognizing its historical significance as a representation of the era. Furthermore, the interaction between market forces and the coin's physical characteristics dictates the final valuation. Increased demand from collectors, alongside improved condition, directly correlates with higher market prices. Consequently, understanding these interlinked factors is crucial to accurately appraising the coin's value within the numismatic market.

Practical applications of this understanding include informed investment decisions. Collectors can utilize this knowledge to acquire coins with the potential for future appreciation. For instance, identification of a rare mint mark, coupled with a high-grade condition, indicates a higher potential return on investment. Conversely, a common coin in poor condition represents a lower-value investment. Furthermore, this knowledge equips collectors and investors to make well-reasoned decisions regarding acquiring or selling 1928 quarters. Accurate appraisals and assessments, factoring in all these elements, enable informed financial decisions aligned with the coin's inherent worth. In summary, comprehending the dynamics of value is essential for maximizing the financial implications associated with a 1928 quarter. This knowledge empowers individuals to make sound judgments based on the coin's specific characteristics and the prevailing market conditions.

In conclusion, the value of a 1928 US quarter is a complex interplay of condition, rarity, and market forces. Recognizing the significance of these factors enables informed decisions, whether in collecting or investing. Consequently, comprehending the interconnectedness of these elements is vital for navigating the numismatic market effectively. Ultimately, this knowledge allows for a more refined appreciation of the 1928 quarter's historical and financial value. Understanding the underlying determinants of value in this coin extends to other collectible items, demonstrating the importance of applying similar principles to diverse financial arenas.

8. Collectibility

The collectibility of a 1928 US quarter stems from a confluence of factors inherent to the coin itself and the broader context of numismatics. Collectibility, in this case, represents the inherent appeal of the 1928 quarter as a desirable object for collectors. This appeal stems from a combination of historical significance, aesthetic qualities, and rarity. The 1920s, a period of economic boom and cultural change, contributed to the inherent appeal of the coin.

The 1928 quarter's value as a collectible item is significantly influenced by its condition. A mint-state 1928 quarter, free from wear and tear, holds a far greater value and desirability for collectors compared to a well-worn example. Mint marks, if present, can also heighten collectibility, as can minting errors. The presence of these specific attributes contributes to the uniqueness and desirability of the coin, elevating its collectibility within the broader numismatic community. Examples of highly collectible 1928 quarters include those with rare mint marks, those that exhibit minting errors, and those preserved in exceptional mint condition. These aspects distinguish these pieces, enhancing their value and collectibility.

Understanding the principles of collectibility in the context of a 1928 US quarter is vital for several reasons. For collectors, this understanding facilitates informed decisions regarding acquisitions, allowing them to prioritize coins with higher potential value appreciation. For investors, recognizing the interplay of condition, rarity, and market demand offers an insight into potential financial returns. Furthermore, appreciating the collectibility of the 1928 quarter connects collectors with the historical significance of the era it represents. This understanding extends beyond financial considerations, enriching the collector's experience through deeper historical and artistic engagement with the period reflected in the coin's design. Consequently, this knowledge contributes to a more comprehensive and nuanced approach to collecting, valuing, and appreciating historical artifacts.

Frequently Asked Questions about the 1928 US Quarter

This section addresses common inquiries regarding the 1928 US quarter, offering concise and informative answers to enhance understanding of this coin's historical and financial aspects.

Question 1: What factors determine the value of a 1928 US quarter?

The value of a 1928 US quarter is determined by a confluence of factors. Condition, particularly the degree of wear or damage, is paramount. Mint state coins, uncirculated, command higher values than those with extensive circulation. Rarity, influenced by mintage figures for specific mints, plays a critical role. Minting errors, if present, significantly elevate the coin's value. Market demand, driven by collector interest and prevailing economic conditions, also influences pricing. Finally, the presence of a specific mint mark can affect the perceived rarity and, subsequently, the value of the coin.

Question 2: How can I identify the mint mark on a 1928 quarter?

Mint marks are unique abbreviations signifying the location of minting. Common mint marks on 1928 quarters include "D" for Denver, "S" for San Francisco, and "P" for Philadelphia. These marks are typically located on the reverse of the coin. Examining the reverse of the coin carefully, focusing on a particular area near the design, will reveal the presence of a specific mint mark if one exists. Accurate identification requires attention to detail and a comparison to documented examples. Consult reference guides or numismatic resources for assistance if needed.

Question 3: What is the historical significance of the 1928 US quarter?

The 1928 US quarter reflects the artistic and economic landscape of the 1920s. Its design, reflecting the prevailing aesthetic preferences of the era, provides a visual representation of the period. The coin's circulation history offers insight into economic conditions, consumer patterns, and cultural trends during the 1920s. Its continued appeal to collectors signifies its lasting connection to the past and its position as a valuable historical artifact.

Question 4: How do I determine the condition of a 1928 US quarter?

Assessing a 1928 quarter's condition involves a visual examination of its surface. Look for signs of wear, such as scratches, dents, or discoloration. The presence of any damage significantly impacts the coin's value. Professional coin grading services employ standardized criteria and tools to evaluate condition objectively. Consult a professional coin grader or expert if precise assessment of condition is required. Visual comparisons with reference images or graded examples can also be helpful for approximate estimations.

Question 5: Where can I find more information about 1928 US quarters?

Numerous online resources, including reputable numismatic websites and forums, provide detailed information about 1928 US quarters. Professional coin grading services and auction houses frequently feature listings of these coins. Library resources, particularly those with collections focused on American numismatics, may hold valuable books and articles. Consulting with experienced coin collectors or dealers in the numismatic community can also yield valuable insights.

By understanding these common questions and their answers, collectors and enthusiasts can more thoroughly appreciate and engage with the 1928 US quarter's historical significance and potential value.

Next, we will delve into more detailed aspects of coin collecting and investment.

Conclusion

The 1928 US quarter, a circulating coin from the 1920s, holds multifaceted significance. Its value hinges on a complex interplay of factors, including condition, rarity, and market demand. Mint state examples, free from wear, exhibit the highest value. Rarity, influenced by mintage figures, specific mint locations, and potential errors, is a critical determinant of worth. The coin's historical contextthe economic and social landscape of the 1920saffects its appeal. The coin's design, reflecting artistic trends of the time, also contributes to its aesthetic value. The intersection of design, condition, rarity, and market forces shapes the coin's overall value within the numismatic realm. The mint mark, indicating the production location, adds a layer of identification and impacts perceived rarity.

A thorough understanding of these factors allows for informed decisions related to collecting and potentially investing in a 1928 US quarter. Collectors should prioritize accurate assessments of condition and rarity. Attention to detail and consultation with knowledgeable professionals enhance decision-making. The historical significance of this coin extends beyond its monetary value, providing a tangible link to a crucial period in American history. This intricate interplay of factors underscores the 1928 US quarter's status as a significant numismatic artifact, deserving of careful analysis and appreciation.