The 1897 vies with the 1898 and 1899 as the most consistently well produced and attractive Proof Liberty Head quarter eagle from the 19th century. The mintage was only 136 Proofs for the date, but they are obtainable enough by the standards of this series. Given its high level of workmanship and above average rate of survival, the 1897 is one of the most popular Liberty Head quarter eagles for Proof type purposes. However, specimens at the Gem level are notably elusive, and become even more so when they feature Ultra Cameo contrast.

The example to the left was sold by Stack's Bowers Galleries in the 2007 Orlando Auction, where it sold for $43,700.