I do not have access right now to a scanner, but I just got a 1869 s quarter in a group of coins I bought. It is a nice, problem free XF with about 70% mint luster. Anyone collect these coins have a good idea of what I could ask for it? Also, I imagine I should get this to NGC/PCGS to maximize potential buyers. Sorry but I don't collect American anymore, but I do see its a scarcer date.
Current Greysheet (wholesale) price is $550, so as mat mentioned above, a fair retail value could be in the $600 - $700 area.
Every coin is easier to move for a higher price if certified. The real question is does the additional cost justify the additional ROI? In my opinion, yeah, get it slabbed.
On circulated coins such as that, which are generally fairly easy to grade, certification would mostly provide proof of authenticity. As Ltrain mentioned, it is easier to sell a coin when it is certified, particularly one in the $500-up category such as yours. ACE Mike