Proof Seated Liberty Quarters (Buy on eBay) were struck for collectors at the Philadelphia Mint, starting on a regular basis in 1858. Earlier dates exist as well, but the production was more limited and accurate mintage records were not maintained. The most famous of these earlier Proof issues is the 1853 Proof with Arrows & Rays Seated Liberty Quarter, although some other early Proofs have even fewer examples known to exist in all grades.
The Proof issues struck from 1858 until the end of the series in 1891 are relatively easier to find. Mintages during this time range from a low of 300 pieces to a high of 1,355. Although pieces are generally available for each date, problem-free examples with good eye appeal usually represent the minority of pieces on the market. A full date set of 1858-1891 Proof Seated Liberty Quarters is an enjoyable collection to pursue, and with the right funds can be completed within a few years in grades up to the gem level.
Proof Seated Liberty Quarter Mintages
| Issue | Mintage |
|---|---|
| 1858 | 300 |
| 1859 | 800 |
| 1860 | 1,000 |
| 1861 | 1,000 |
| 1862 | 550 |
| 1863 | 460 |
| 1864 | 470 |
| 1865 | 500 |
| 1866 | 725 |
| 1867 | 625 |
| 1868 | 600 |
| 1869 | 600 |
| 1870 | 1,000 |
| 1871 | 960 |
| 1872 | 950 |
| 1873 Close 3 | 600 |
| 1873-CC | 6 known |
| 1873 | 500 |
| 1874 | 540 |
| 1875 | 700 |
| 1876 | 1,150 |
| 1877 | 510 |
| 1878 | 800 |
| 1879 | 1,100 |
| 1880 | 1,355 |
| 1881 | 975 |
| 1882 | 1,100 |
| 1883 | 1,039 |
| 1884 | 875 |
| 1885 | 930 |
| 1886 | 886 |
| 1887 | 710 |
| 1888 | 832 |
| 1889 | 711 |
| 1890 | 590 |
| 1891 | 600 |
