$10 Bankroll Washington Silver Quarters

The Washington Silver Quarter, composed of 90% silver, was minted from 1932 to 1964. Featuring the iconic portrait of George Washington on the obverse and an eagle on the reverse, these quarters are a staple among coin collectors and silver investors.

Design and Specifications

• Obverse (front): The portrait of George Washington, facing left, designed by John Flanagan. The word 'LIBERTY' is inscribed above, with the motto 'IN GOD WE TRUST' to the left, and the date below.
• Reverse (back): Features a heraldic eagle with wings spread, holding arrows and olive branches. The words 'UNITED STATES OF AMERICA' and 'QUARTER DOLLAR' encircle the eagle.
• 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 Silver Quarter was minted at several U.S. Mints, with mint marks indicating the place of origin. The mint mark is located on the reverse, just below the wreath near the bottom:

• Philadelphia (no mint mark): The Philadelphia Mint produced the majority of these quarters.
• Denver ('D'): The Denver Mint contributed significantly to the production, especially during the mid-20th century.
• San Francisco ('S'): The San Francisco Mint issued many quarters, though in smaller quantities than the other mints.

Collectible Varieties

• 1932-D and 1932-S: These are key dates for collectors due to their low mintages, making them more valuable than other years.
• Doubled Die Obverse: Known for striking errors where the design appears doubled, particularly noticeable on the motto 'IN GOD WE TRUST' or the word 'LIBERTY'.

Common Dates vs. Rare Dates

Quarters from the mid-1940s to early 1960s, especially those from Philadelphia, had large mintages and are generally more common. These coins are often sold close to their melt value due to their availability.

Rare Dates and Varieties

The 1932-D and 1932-S quarters are particularly rare and sought after due to their low production numbers. Additionally, coins with errors such as the Doubled Die varieties from select years can command higher premiums.

Various Grades and Values

The value of Washington Silver 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:

• Good (G): $5-10
• Fine (F): $7-12
• Extremely Fine (XF): $10-15
• About Uncirculated (AU): $12-18
• Brilliant Uncirculated (BU/MS): $15-25

Key dates and rare varieties can significantly increase in value, with 1932-D and 1932-S quarters fetching premiums well above their silver content, especially in higher grades.

The Washington Silver Quarter is a cherished piece of American numismatic history. Key dates like the 1932-D and 1932-S, as well as error varieties, are highly prized by collectors. Meanwhile, common-date coins serve as a popular vehicle for silver investment, with values closely tied to the silver market. The desirability and value of these quarters rise with their grade and rarity.

$10 Bankroll Washington Silver Quarters Auctions