The Bare-Breasted Standing Liberty Quarter of 1916 and 1917

The Standing Liberty Quarter is an important coin in American history. First minted in 1916, this quarter was designed during a time when the world was facing World War I. The design aimed to show America’s readiness to defend itself while also seeking peace. However, it became famous for its controversial depiction of Lady Liberty, who was shown with her breast exposed. This article explores the story behind the coin, its design, and its significance in coin collecting.

The Birth of the Standing Liberty Quarter

When the Standing Liberty quarter was introduced, the world was in turmoil due to World War I. The United States was not yet involved in the war but was feeling the effects of global conflict. The design of the quarter reflected the changing times, showcasing a new artistic style called Art Nouveau. This style was popular for its elegant lines and expressions.

The Treasury Department held a competition to design the new quarter. The chosen design by sculptor Hermon A. McNeil featured Miss Liberty standing proudly, holding a shield and an olive branch. The design was meant to symbolize protection and peace. However, the exposure of Liberty’s breast stirred significant controversy.

The Standing Liberty Quarter Design

Hermon A. McNeil’s design depicted Liberty in a flowing garment that slipped off her shoulder, revealing her breast. This image was meant to represent strength and vulnerability. The olive branch in her hand symbolized peace, while the shield represented defense. The combination of these elements raised questions about its message during wartime. Was it a statement of openness and peace or an invitation to those in need?

The Public Reaction

Once the 1916 Standing Liberty quarters entered circulation on January 17, 1917, the public response was swift and outraged. Many people found the design offensive. Religious groups condemned it as “obscene,” and citizens pressured Congress to recall the coins. While some historians argue that the public outcry was limited, it certainly played a role in changing the design.

Redesigning the Coin

Due to the backlash, the Treasury decided to redesign the coin. McNeil was instructed to cover Liberty more adequately. Instead of simply adjusting the garment, he created a new design featuring Liberty in a suit of armor, nearly covering her neck with chain mail. This drastic change reflected societal values at the time and the discomfort with nudity in public art.

Three Types of Standing Liberty Quarters

Over the years, the Standing Liberty Quarter underwent multiple design changes. Here’s a quick summary of the three types:

Type	Design Features	Years Minted
Type I	Liberty’s breast exposed, seven stars on the left, six stars on the right	1916-1917
Type II	Liberty clothed, three stars below the eagle, five stars on either side on the reverse	1917-1924
Type III	Same as Type II but with recessed date	1925-1930

One notable error is the 1918 8-over-7 doubled die obverse.

The 1916 Bare-Breasted Liberty Quarter as an Investment

The 1916 Bare-Breasted Liberty Quarter may not be as rare as some collectors think. Even though only 52,000 were minted, many were stored as curiosities. This resulted in a larger number available than expected. However, the coin’s value has fluctuated over the years. It can be a poor investment compared to more stable coins, but it holds significant curiosity and historical value for collectors.

If you want to invest in one, consider buying the best quality you can afford, especially if it is graded by a reliable service like PCGS or NGC. The value of this coin often depends on the market demand and historical interest.

Conclusion

The Bare-Breasted Standing Liberty Quarter is not just a piece of currency; it is a reflection of a tumultuous time in American history. Its design sparked debate about art and decency during a critical moment when the U.S. was on the brink of entering World War I. While its initial release was met with outrage, the coin remains a valuable collectible today. Whether seen as “obscene” or “art,” the quarter tells a unique story of its era, making it a fascinating piece for any coin collector. Understanding its background can help you appreciate its place in American numismatics.

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