The Washington Quarter, introduced in 1932 to commemorate George Washington’s 200th birthday, has become a staple in American coinage. Over the decades, certain key dates and rare varieties have emerged, captivating collectors and numismatists alike.
Understanding these significant issues can enhance any collection and potentially offer substantial value.
Key Dates in the Washington Quarter Series
Some Washington Quarters are particularly notable due to their low mintage numbers or unique characteristics. These key dates are highly sought after:
| Year | Mint Mark | Mintage | Notable Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1932 | D | 436,800 | First year of issue; low mintage |
| 1932 | S | 408,000 | First year of issue; lowest mintage in series |
| 1934 | None | 31,912,052 | Known for doubled die obverse variety |
| 1936 | D | 5,374,000 | Scarce in higher grades |
| 1937 | None | 19,696,000 | Features doubled die obverse variety |
| 1942 | D | 17,487,200 | Contains doubled die obverse variety |
| 1943 | P | 99,700,000 | Noted for doubled die obverse variety |
| 1943 | S | 21,700,000 | Includes doubled die obverse variety |
| 1950 | D | 21,164,000 | Features D over S mintmark variety |
| 1950 | S | 11,384,000 | Contains S over D mintmark variety |
Rare Varieties and Errors
Beyond key dates, certain varieties and mint errors add intrigue and value to the Washington Quarter series:
- Doubled Die Obverse (DDO): Notable in years like 1934, 1937, 1942, and 1943, this error results from a misalignment during the die creation process, causing a doubling effect on the obverse inscriptions.
- Repunched Mint Marks (RPM): Examples include the 1950-D over S and 1950-S over D, where the mint mark was stamped more than once, leading to overlapping impressions.
- Transitional Errors: In 1965, the U.S. Mint transitioned from 90% silver to a copper-nickel clad composition. Some 1965 quarters were mistakenly struck on silver planchets, making them exceptionally rare.
Collecting Tips
- Authentication: Due to the prevalence of counterfeits, especially concerning error coins, it’s crucial to have valuable specimens authenticated by reputable grading services.
- Condition Matters: Coins in higher grades (e.g., Mint State) are more desirable. Proper storage in protective holders can help maintain a coin’s condition.
- Stay Informed: Regularly consult updated numismatic guides and auction results to stay abreast of current market trends and valuations.
Conclusion
The Washington Quarter series offers a rich tapestry of history, artistry, and numismatic intrigue. By focusing on key dates and rare varieties, collectors can build a meaningful and potentially valuable collection.
Whether you’re a seasoned numismatist or a novice enthusiast, the pursuit of these notable quarters can be both rewarding and educational.
FAQs
1. What makes a Washington Quarter a “key date”?
A key date refers to coins with low mintage numbers or significant historical importance, making them more valuable to collectors.
2. How can I identify a doubled die obverse on a Washington Quarter?
Look for noticeable doubling in the inscriptions on the obverse side, such as “LIBERTY” or the date.
3. Are all 1932 Washington Quarters valuable?
While 1932 was the inaugural year, the D and S mintmark coins are particularly valuable due to their low mintage.
4. What is a repunched mint mark (RPM)?
An RPM occurs when the mint mark is stamped more than once, leading to overlapping impressions.
5. Should I clean my Washington Quarters to enhance their value?
No, cleaning can reduce a coin’s value. It’s best to keep them in their original condition.
