$500 90% Silver Washington Quarters

The Washington Quarter, made of 90% silver, was minted from 1932 to 1964. It features the iconic image of George Washington on the obverse, designed by John Flanagan. Collectors and investors highly appreciate these quarters for their historical significance and silver content.

Design and Specifications

• Obverse (front): Displays a portrait of George Washington facing left, with the word 'LIBERTY' above and the date below. The motto 'IN GOD WE TRUST' is inscribed to the left.
• Reverse (back): Features a heraldic eagle with outstretched wings, holding arrows and an olive branch. The words 'UNITED STATES OF AMERICA' and 'QUARTER DOLLAR' are inscribed around the edge.
• Weight: 6.25 grams
• Silver Content: 0.1808 troy ounces of pure silver
• Fineness: 90% silver (0.900 fineness)

Mint Marks and Varieties

The Washington Quarter was struck at several U.S. Mints, with mint marks indicating their origin. The mint mark is located on the reverse, just below the wreath:

• Philadelphia (no mint mark): The Philadelphia Mint produced a significant portion of these coins, especially in the early years.
• Denver ('D'): Denver-minted quarters are common, but certain years have lower mintages.
• San Francisco ('S'): San Francisco issues are notable, with wartime mintages being particularly interesting to collectors.

Collectible Varieties

• 1932-D and 1932-S: The first year of issue and low mintages make these highly collectible and valuable.
• 1934 Doubled Die Obverse: A rare error that significantly increases the coin's value.
• 1943-S Doubled Die Obverse: Another error variety that is sought after by collectors.

Common Dates vs. Rare Dates

Many post-war quarters, such as those from the late 1940s and 1950s, are more common due to higher mintages. These are often traded for their silver content rather than numismatic value.

Rare Dates and Varieties

Key dates include the 1932-D and 1932-S quarters, which had low mintages and are highly sought after by collectors. Error coins like the 1934 Doubled Die Obverse and 1943-S Doubled Die Obverse are rare and command a premium.

Various Grades and Values

The value of Silver Washington Quarters depends on their condition (grade), rarity, and mint mark. Here is a general estimate of the value based on grades for common-date coins (post-1940s):

• Good (G): $5-8
• Fine (F): $8-10
• Extremely Fine (XF): $10-15
• About Uncirculated (AU): $15-20
• Brilliant Uncirculated (BU/MS): $20-30

Rare mint marks and key dates, especially those from the early 1930s, can command prices well into the hundreds or even thousands for coins in higher grades.

The 90% Silver Washington Quarter is a significant piece of American coinage history. Coins from the early 1930s, particularly the 1932-D and 1932-S, along with error varieties, are highly sought after by collectors and can command significant premiums. Common-date coins are more affordable and are often traded for their silver content, making them a popular choice for silver investors. The coin's value increases significantly with higher grades and more desirable mint marks.

$500 Face Value Silver Washington Quarters Auctions