The U. S. 1853 Quarter, known as the "Arrows and Rays" quarter, is a unique piece of American numismatic history. This coin is part of the Seated Liberty series, which was minted from 1838 to 1891. The 1853 version is particularly notable for its design modifications, marking a significant change in the nation's coinage.
On the obverse side, the coin features the familiar image of Lady Liberty seated on a rock, holding a shield in her left hand and a staff with a liberty cap in her right. In 1853, small arrows were added on either side of the date to indicate a reduction in the coin's weight. This change was necessary due to fluctuations in the value of silver, which had made earlier quarters worth more in metal content than their face value.
The reverse side of the coin displays an eagle with a shield on its chest, clutching an olive branch and arrows. For the 1853 edition, rays were added around the eagle, giving the coin a distinctive and striking appearance. This "Arrows and Rays" design was only used for one year, making it a favorite among collectors. Its short mintage and historical significance make it a valuable addition to any collection.
