Today I went to go cash in some sorted coins at my local bank. As usual I asked my teller if he had anything interesting. He said that he found an old quarter while cleaning out the coin machine. It was a 1877 Liberty seated quarter. It seems pretty worn but the date is still legible. Any idea what it's worth?
Could you possibly provide some photos? 1877 is a common date BTW but still worth more than silver melt even if heavily worn. We just need to see exactly how much wear and if there is any damage or improper cleaning.
The obverse has full rims which would make it a strong good+. The reverse however has the rims worn into the lettering which downgrades the coin to AG (about good). Also there is some black crud covering the coin especially on the obverse. If it can be removed using a non abrasive cleaning method such as acetone, the appearance can be greatly improved. Auction records on Ebay show a coin like yours selling in the $3 - $7 range (including shipping) which is definitely more than 25 cents and more than silver melt, particularly with silver trading at only about $14 per ounce.
