The 1940 Washington Quarter, minted during a pivotal era in U.S. history, holds significant interest for numismatists due to its unique varieties, errors, and varying values. Understanding these aspects can enhance a collector’s appreciation and investment in this classic coin.
Overview of the 1940 Washington Quarter
Introduced in 1932 to honor George Washington’s 200th birthday, the Washington Quarter became a mainstay in American currency. The 1940 edition was produced across three mints: Philadelphia (no mint mark), Denver (“D”), and San Francisco (“S”).
Mintage and Specifications
| Mint Location | Mint Mark | Mintage | Composition | Diameter | Weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Philadelphia | None | 35,704,000 | 90% Silver, 10% Copper | 24.3 mm | 6.25 g |
| Denver | D | 2,797,600 | 90% Silver, 10% Copper | 24.3 mm | 6.25 g |
| San Francisco | S | 8,244,000 | 90% Silver, 10% Copper | 24.3 mm | 6.25 g |
Values Based on Condition
The value of a 1940 Washington Quarter varies depending on its mint mark and condition:
| Condition | 1940 (No Mint Mark) | 1940-D | 1940-S |
|---|---|---|---|
| Good (G-4) | $7 | $25 | $12 |
| Very Fine (VF-20) | $8 | $30 | $14 |
| Extremely Fine (EF-40) | $9 | $35 | $16 |
| About Uncirculated (AU-50) | $10 | $40 | $18 |
| Mint State (MS-60) | $20 | $140 | $32 |
| Mint State (MS-65) | $56 | $285 | $65 |
Values are approximate and can fluctuate based on market demand.
Rare Errors and Varieties
Certain errors and varieties from the 1940 mintage are particularly sought after:
- 1940-D Doubled Die Obverse (DDO): This variety exhibits noticeable doubling on the obverse, especially in the motto “In God We Trust.” In MS-66 grade, it has fetched up to $2,880 at auction.
- 1940-D/D Repunched Mint Mark (RPM): This error features a repunched “D” mint mark, where the initial impression was off-center and corrected. High-grade examples can command prices up to $1,250.
- Lamination Errors: These occur due to impurities or imperfections in the metal, leading to flaking or peeling on the coin’s surface. Such errors can increase a coin’s value, depending on severity and visibility.
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 1940 Washington Quarter 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.
