A 1920-D Full Head example realized $372,000 at Heritage Auctions in 2021 — the highest price ever paid for any 1920 quarter. The same coin type, in worn circulated condition, starts around $22. Which side of that spectrum is yours? Use the free wizard below to find out in under 60 seconds.
The Full Head designation is the single biggest value driver for the 1920 Standing Liberty Quarter. A non-FH coin at MS65 might fetch $500–$600. The same coin with Full Head details can exceed $5,000. Use the visual comparison and checklist below to assess yours.
Liberty's helmet looks flat or smooth. The three leaves on her head are indistinct or merge together. The hairline along the brow is weak or incomplete. The ear hole is barely a dimple or invisible entirely. These coins are collectible but trade at standard prices.
All three leaves on Liberty's helmet are completely and distinctly separated. The helmet outline at the bottom is sharp and continuous. A clear ear indentation is visible. The hairline along Liberty's brow is raised and complete. These coins are worth dramatically more — often 5×–20× a non-FH example.
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Look at the obverse (heads side). To the right of the lowermost star on the left pedestal, you'll find a D, S, or nothing at all.
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Most 1920 quarters you encounter are straightforward circulated silver coins. But a small number left the Philadelphia, Denver, and San Francisco mints with documented production errors — and those pieces attract serious collector interest. The five varieties below are the ones worth knowing, in descending order of collector recognition. Each one requires careful examination under magnification to identify with confidence.
A clashed die error happens when the obverse and reverse dies make direct contact without a planchet between them. The impact transfers a faint incuse ghost of each die's design onto its opposite partner — and that ghost then gets transferred onto every coin struck afterward. On the 1920 issue, this variety is officially catalogued as FS-401 in the Cherrypickers' Guide, making it a recognized and sought-after collectible variety.
The most reliable diagnostic is a faint "E" from "E Pluribus Unum" appearing as an incuse impression on the obverse near Liberty's knee or shield area. On the reverse, collectors also look for a soft transfer impression of Liberty's shield or gown near the eagle. Both the Philadelphia (no mint mark) and the San Francisco issues carry documented FS-401 examples; the Denver issue also exists with clash marks but is less formally attributed.
These are not high-dollar errors on their own, but they are fully documented, certified by PCGS and NGC, and commonly overlooked by non-specialist sellers. A 1920-P example in MS64 sold for $595, while a 1920-S example in AU58 reached $500. Well-struck FH examples with clash marks would command additional premium from both error and series collectors simultaneously.
The Tear Drop error is a specific type of interior die cud — a raised, smooth area formed when a section of the die cracks and chips away, leaving a void that fills with metal on every subsequent strike. On the 1920-S issue, the crack formed in a location that left a portion of Lady Liberty's gown area with a distinctive teardrop outline. The shape is unmistakable once you know what you're looking for.
This error is documented in Robert H. Knauss's specialized reference "Standing Liberty Quarter Varieties and Errors," one of the definitive works in the series. The teardrop shape is a raised, smooth area — not a depression — and it contrasts clearly with the surrounding gown detail. Unlike a simple die crack, the affected area is entirely smooth and clearly bounded, reflecting the complete loss of die metal at that point.
The Tear Drop has been found and certified on multiple Standing Liberty issues, making it one of the more recognized named die errors in the series. Because the 1920-S has a lower mintage than the Philadelphia issue and because die cud specimens are inherently scarce, finding one commands a collector premium above the coin's base grade value. Examples in VG to VF grades typically sell in the $30–$100 range, with higher grades or more dramatic specimens pushing above that.
Die cracks form when the working die develops fractures from the enormous pressure of striking thousands of coins. Metal flows into the crack on every subsequent strike, producing a raised ridge on the coin's surface. The 1920 Standing Liberty Quarter saw die cracks documented across all three mint issues — Philadelphia, Denver, and San Francisco — most commonly on the obverse, near Liberty's figure or across the date area.
The critical distinction from a post-mint scratch is that die cracks are always raised above the coin's surface, while scratches are incused (cut into) the metal. Tilt the coin at a shallow angle under a single light source and you'll see the crack cast a shadow if it's a genuine die crack; scratches catch light differently. On certain 1920-S examples, cracks have been found running horizontally across the top of the four date digits — a dramatic and highly desirable find. NGC recognizes one notable die state, VP-001, featuring a die chip to the right of Liberty's legs on the Philadelphia issue.
Die crack premiums are proportional to the crack's prominence and location. Minor hairline cracks add modest value — perhaps $10–$50 above the coin's base grade. Dramatic rim-to-rim cracks, or those crossing the date on a scarcer mint, can push values meaningfully higher with error collectors. On an otherwise high-grade 1920-S or 1920-D, a dramatic die crack is a genuine double-appeal coin that attracts both series and error specialists.
An off-center strike occurs when the planchet (blank coin disk) is not properly centered within the collar die at the moment of striking. The result is a coin where the design appears shifted to one side, with a blank, unstruck area of the planchet visible on the opposite edge. The severity ranges from barely perceptible shifts of 5% to dramatic examples where half the design is missing.
For 1920 Standing Liberty Quarters, value is heavily tied to two factors: the percentage off-center and whether the date remains visible. Pre-1925 Standing Liberty Quarters have their date on an exposed pedestal that is among the first areas to disappear in an off-center strike, so a coin with 20–40% off-center displacement and a fully readable 1920 date is a genuinely desirable find. Minor examples (5–10% off, full date visible) trade in the $75–$200 range in circulated grades. Major examples (20–50% off-center with partial or missing date) reach $150–$400+, while spectacular major examples with a full date still intact can exceed $750 among specialists.
Authentication is straightforward — genuine off-center strikes show a uniform, unstruck planchet rim on the blank side with an uninterrupted edge, while altered coins typically show evidence of post-mint manipulation. Always submit significant off-center examples to PCGS or NGC before attempting to sell.
A wrong planchet error is among the most dramatic and valuable of all mint errors. It occurs when a coin blank (planchet) intended for a different denomination or even a different country accidentally enters the striking chamber and receives the 1920 Standing Liberty Quarter dies. The result is a coin that carries the familiar obverse and reverse design of the Standing Liberty Quarter but on a planchet of incorrect size, weight, or composition.
For the 1920 issue, the documented example involves a Peruvian 20 centavos planchet — a foreign silver planchet of slightly different specifications that was inadvertently mixed into the production stream. These are among the rarest production errors due to their combination of unlikely circumstances: the wrong blank had to survive sorting, reach the press, and escape quality control. The resulting coin is visually striking, with the design cut off or distorted by the planchet's incorrect diameter, and its weight will deviate measurably from the standard 6.25 grams.
Wrong planchet errors require professional authentication without exception — the weight and composition differences are the primary diagnostics and must be measured accurately. Given their extreme rarity and visual drama, these are among the most valuable U.S. minting errors from this era. Values start around $500 for documented examples and can exceed $3,000 for certified, problem-free specimens, depending on eye appeal and the specific planchet involved.
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The table below covers all six major type combinations — three mints, standard strike vs. Full Head — across four condition tiers. For a more detailed step-by-step 1920 quarter identification breakdown and reference walkthrough, visit the linked guide. Values reflect recent PCGS and Heritage auction data. Gold row = signature Full Head variety. Orange-red row = rarest (1920-D FH).
| Type | Worn (G–VG) | Circulated (F–EF) | Uncirculated (AU–MS63) | Gem MS (MS64–MS67+) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1920-P (No Mark) | $22 – $35 | $53 – $135 | $135 – $600 | $600 – $21,850 |
| 1920-P Full Head ★ | $26 – $45 | $90 – $240 | $240 – $900 | $900 – $4,500+ |
| 1920-D | $112 – $175 | $233 – $435 | $435 – $2,000 | $2,000 – $36,000 |
| 1920-D Full Head ★★ (RAREST) | $107 – $200 | $365 – $1,150 | $1,150 – $6,000 | $13,000 – $372,000 |
| 1920-S | $25 – $50 | $83 – $305 | $305 – $1,200 | $1,200 – $12,000 |
| 1920-S Full Head ★ | $349 – $600 | $1,195 – $3,061 | $3,061 – $7,000 | $7,000 – $144,000 |
★ Full Head rows: values are for FH-designated specimens only. Non-FH values are in the standard rows above each. Values are ranges based on PCGS Price Guide and Heritage Auctions realized prices — individual coins may vary. ★★ 1920-D FH top sale: $372,000 for MS68+ FH at Heritage, August 2021.
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| Mint | Mint Mark | Mintage | Est. Survivors | Survival Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Philadelphia | None (P) | 27,860,000 | ~15,000 | 0.054% |
| San Francisco | S | 6,380,000 | ~5,000 | 0.078% |
| Denver | D | 3,586,400 | ~4,000 | 0.112% |
| All Mints Total | — | 37,826,400 | ~24,000 | 0.063% |
Survival estimates are based on market analysis. The vast majority of 1920 quarters circulated heavily through the 1920s–1940s and were worn past the point of numismatic collectibility. Denver's comparatively higher survival rate reflects fewer coins circulating in smaller geographic areas, resulting in proportionally better preservation despite the lowest absolute mintage.
For pre-1925 Standing Liberty Quarters, grading is more complex than most other series because both strike quality and wear must be assessed together. A coin that looks worn may actually be a victim of a weak original strike — and vice versa. The key areas to examine are Liberty's head, her midsection, and the eagle's leading wing edges on the reverse.
Major design elements are present but heavily smoothed. Liberty's head is a flat silhouette — no leaf or ear detail. The date must still be legible (critical for pre-1925 issues). The shield, gown, and eagle are recognizable but lack crisp line definition. Value for the 1920-P starts around $22; 1920-D around $112 due to lower mintage.
Liberty's figure retains clear outline and some gown fold detail. The shield rivets may be partially visible in higher circulated grades (EF). Liberty's head still lacks Full Head detail in most cases — even EF coins frequently show a flat or partially merged helmet area. Eagle wing feathers are clear but worn at the leading edge. 1920-P: $53–$135; 1920-D: $233–$435.
Mint luster is present, though AU coins show traces of wear on Liberty's breast, the shield edge, and the eagle's high points. In MS grades, the surfaces are fully lustrous with no wear — but a soft original strike can still mimic worn appearance in Liberty's head area. This is where evaluating for Full Head designation becomes essential. 1920-P: $135–$600.
Fully original luster, no wear, minimal bag marks or contact marks. In the upper gem grades (MS66+), surfaces are virtually pristine. The Full Head designation — when present — is confirmed by complete three-leaf detail, a closed helmet outline, visible ear indentation, and a raised hairline along the brow. A 1920-D FH in MS68+ realized $372,000 at Heritage Auctions in 2021.
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The right venue depends on your coin's grade, variety, and how quickly you need to sell. Higher-grade and Full Head examples reward patience and the right platform. Lower-grade common pieces are fine to sell locally or quickly online.
The largest rare coin auction house in the world, Heritage is the right choice for any 1920-D or 1920-S in high grades, Full Head designated coins, or documented error varieties. The August 2021 sale where the MS68+ FH realized $372,000 was a Heritage event. Expect fees of 17.5–20% buyer's premium on top of hammer price. Consignment works best for coins valued above $500–$1,000.
eBay is the most liquid market for circulated 1920 quarters and mid-grade examples. Browse recently sold prices for 1920 Standing Liberty Quarters on the market to see real-time comps before listing. Use "Sold Listings" to filter for actual realized prices. For coins under $300, fixed-price listings with free shipping tend to move fastest. Always photograph both sides clearly in natural light.
Fast and convenient, local coin dealers offer immediate cash but typically pay 50–70% of retail value. Best suited for bulk lots of worn 1920 quarters, or if you simply want to convert to cash quickly without the effort of online listing. Always get quotes from 2–3 shops if you believe your coin is above average — dealers' assessments of grade and variety vary. Shops pay closer to spot silver value on heavily worn examples.
The Reddit coin-selling communities allow collector-to-collector sales with no auction fees. You keep more of the realized price, but you'll need to accept PayPal Goods & Services for buyer protection and ship with tracking. Best for mid-range circulated 1920 quarters in the $25–$200 range where auction fees would eat too much of the margin. Clear photos and accurate descriptions are essential — the community is knowledgeable and values transparency.
If you believe your 1920 quarter might qualify for a Full Head designation, or if it appears to grade AU50 or higher, professional certification by PCGS or NGC is strongly recommended before selling. PCGS grading fees start around $30–$65 per coin at basic service levels. A 1920-S that grades MS62 sells for a few hundred dollars raw — the same coin certified MS62 FH by PCGS commands a dramatically higher price and is far easier to sell to serious buyers who trust the slab.
Value depends on the mint and condition. A 1920 Philadelphia quarter in Good grades around $22, rising to roughly $1,000 in Mint State. The 1920-D is the most valuable of the three mints — a finest-known MS68+ Full Head example sold for $372,000 at Heritage Auctions in 2021. The 1920-S in Full Head condition can reach over $10,000 in Mint State grades.
The Full Head (FH) designation is awarded by PCGS and NGC to Standing Liberty Quarters where Liberty's helmet shows three complete and distinct leaves, a complete outline at the bottom of the helmet, and a clear ear hole. This designation commands a significant premium — sometimes 10× or more over a non-FH coin of the same grade — because FH examples are the result of a well-executed strike.
Look to the right of the lowermost star on the left pedestal of the obverse. A small 'D' indicates Denver, 'S' indicates San Francisco, and no letter at all means Philadelphia. The mint mark is tiny and may be partially obscured by wear on circulated examples, so use a 5× or 10× loupe for a clean read.
The 1920-D is the rarest by mintage, with only 3,586,400 struck — far fewer than Philadelphia's 27,860,000 or San Francisco's 6,380,000. In Full Head grades, the 1920-D is especially rare and commands premium prices. An MS68+ FH example realized $372,000 at Heritage Auctions in 2021, making it the highest price ever paid for any 1920 quarter.
A clashed die error occurs when the obverse and reverse dies strike each other without a planchet between them. This leaves a ghost impression of the opposing side's design on each die, which then transfers onto struck coins. The 1920 Philadelphia and 1920-S issues both carry this variety, catalogued as FS-401 in the Cherrypickers' Guide. A 1920-P example in MS64 sold for $595, and a 1920-S in AU58 reached $500.
Yes. The 1920 Standing Liberty Quarter is composed of 90% silver and 10% copper, weighs 6.25 grams, and measures 24.3mm in diameter. The silver melt value at current spot prices is approximately $4–$5 per coin. Even heavily worn examples have intrinsic value above face value due to their silver content alone.
The Tear Drop error is a specific type of interior die cud found on the 1920-S Standing Liberty Quarter. The die cracked in a way that left a portion of Lady Liberty's gown area with a distinctive teardrop outline. Documented in Robert H. Knauss's reference book on Standing Liberty Quarter varieties, this is a visually striking and recognized die error within the series. Examples in VG to VF grades typically sell in the $30–$100 range.
Survival estimates are significantly lower than mintage numbers. Of the 27,860,000 Philadelphia coins minted, approximately 15,000 are estimated to have survived in collectible condition — a rate of just 0.05%. Denver survivors are estimated at around 4,000 and San Francisco at around 5,000. The vast majority circulated heavily and are too worn to attribute or collect.
In Good (G-4) condition, major design elements are visible but heavily worn. Liberty's figure is outlined but her head detail and gown folds are mostly smooth. The date is still legible, which is crucial for pre-1925 Standing Liberty Quarters, since worn dates can disappear entirely. The mint mark 'D' may be faint but should still be visible. Even in Good condition, the 1920-D commands around $112 due to its low mintage.
For high-grade or Full Head examples, Heritage Auctions, Stack's Bowers, or Great Collections offer the best access to serious collectors who pay top dollar. For mid-grade coins, eBay completed listings show current real-world prices. Local coin shops are fast but typically offer 60–70% of retail. If your coin may be a rare variety or Full Head specimen, get it PCGS or NGC certified before selling to maximize realized price.
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