My Insights on Red Book vs. PCGS for Seated Liberty Type Sets (Not for Pricing)

Putting together a Type Set for Seated Liberty Quarters? Let me share something interesting I discovered when comparing the Red Book and PCGS definitions. This isn’t about values—it’s about how we categorize these beautiful coins to build a meaningful collection.

My Journey with Seated Liberty Quarters

While assembling my set, I relied on trusted references like the Red Book and PCGS Coin Facts. But here’s where things got tricky: their type lists don’t match up, especially for subtypes like No Drapery or Arrows variations. It really made me reconsider what “type” means in our hobby.

Where Red Book and PCGS Differ

Here’s what stood out to me in the Seated Liberty Quarter series:

• Red Book’s Approach: They group types by design features—motto, arrows, and rays—listing six variations including No Motto (1838-1853, 1856-1865) and Arrows & Rays (1853). I did notice some quirks though, like how they split the 1873-1874 coins into two types when they’re essentially the same design.
• PCGS’s System: Their six types feel more streamlined. They give the 1838-1840 No Drapery its own category (which the Red Book combines), and their date ranges for types like No Motto (1840-1865) seem clearer.

The main difference? How each source treats design elements like drapery, motto, arrows, and rays—with weight changes playing a secondary role.

What This Means for Your Collection

These differences actually shape your collecting approach. Here’s what I’ve learned:

• Building for Yourself: Make your own rules! Some of my favorite collections include every variation, like the No Drapery or 1853-O Arrows & Rays. Collect what speaks to you—no guide should limit your enjoyment.
• Competitive Sets: Stick to PCGS or NGC definitions if you’re doing registry sets. PCGS feels more intuitive to me, while the Red Book offers historical perspective. When in doubt, NGC’s Coin Explorer can help clarify.
• Key Design Elements: Focus on five core features: motto presence, drapery style, arrows, rays, and weight. Most collectors create 5-8 types based on these, but remember—weight changes rarely define types alone.

My Advice to Fellow Collectors

Here’s the truth I discovered: there’s no single “correct” approach. What matters is building a collection you love. Whether you follow the Red Book, PCGS, or even vintage Whitman albums (which list eight types!), make it yours. The most impressive collections I’ve seen celebrate all these variations. So choose your reference, enjoy the hunt, and let your passion lead. Happy collecting!