What Does a Quarter Look Like? History of the Quarter

The United States quarter is a coin worth 25 cents, one-fourth of a dollar. Its diameter is .955 inches (24.26 mm), and its width is .069 inches (1.75 mm). This coin features George Washington’s profile on its obverse, while the reverse design has seen many frequent changes over the years. Since their inception, quarters have been minted regularly with only a few interruptions. Continue reading to learn more about what does a quarter look like. 

Here’s what coin collectors and newcomers need to know about the history of the quarter and quarter coin designs from across the centuries.

AUCTION RECORD:  $48,300 • GEM BU

Image source: PCGS

History

The first US quarter dollar coin, known as the Draped Bust Quarter, was minted in 1796. These coins were composed of silver and had a diameter of 24.3 mm, making them slightly larger than the current quarters.

The weight of the first quarters was 6.74 grams, and the composition was .8924 silver and .1076 copper. The obverse of the silver quarter coins featured a bust of Lady Liberty, and the reverse featured an eagle. This quarter was in circulation until 1807.

Changes Over the Years

In 1804, the Mint produced a mintage of Draped Bust quarters with a slightly varied design. These coins were still composed of silver, but the weight was reduced to 5.81 grams. The diameter was also reduced to 22.5 mm. The new design features Liberty on the obverse and an eagle on the reverse.

In 1815, production of the quarter resumed after a hiatus of a few years. The weight and diameter both stayed the same, as did the composition of silver and copper.

However, the obverse and reverse designs changed. The new Liberty quarter, known as the Capped Bust Quarter, maintained a bust of Liberty but reversed her position and removed the “Liberty” lettering along the top, opting instead for a simple headdress with “Liberty” on it.

The new reverse kept the eagle but moved the wreath and added “E Pluribus Unum” above a newly designed eagle.

In 1831, the composition of the quarter changed. The diameter was reduced slightly from 27.5 mm to 24.3 mm. Minor design variations were made in 1834, but the composition remained the same.

From 1838 to 1891, the U.S. Mint produced the Seated Liberty Quarter, a minor variation of the standing Liberty design. The following year, the Barber quarter was introduced. This quarter, which was minted between 1892 and 1916, features a side profile of Lady Liberty.

The Washington Years

Throughout the 20th century, the quarter would see some notable changes. In 1932, to commemorate the 200th anniversary of George Washington’s birth, the United States Mint released a new quarter.

The design was by John Flanagan and featured a left-facing profile of Washington. The coin was made of silver and was the same size and weight as the previous quarters.

The new design was met with mixed reviews, but it remained unchanged for over 50 years. In 1975, the Mint began experimenting with different compositions and sizes for Washington quarters. A new, smaller quarter was released in 1979 made of a copper-nickel alloy. The size and weight reduction were intended to save money on production costs.

Most American quarters since then have retained the same composition and size, all featuring the profile of Washington that has remained the same since 1932.

Bicentennial Celebration and Statehood Quarter Program

The bicentennial of the United States was celebrated in 1976, and to commemorate the occasion, the U.S. Mint released a special bicentennial quarter.

This program was so popular that it was extended, and from 1999 to 2008, the U.S. Mint released all-new 50 state quarters. These quarters were very popular with collectors and non-collectors alike.

In 2009, the U.S. Mint started releasing the America the Beautiful Quarters featuring designs from national parks and other notable sites. These quarters are still being released today and are sure to be popular for many years to come. However, they are not worth money beyond their standard value of $0.25 — besides the special collector’s versions.

New Quarter Design for 2022

In 2022, the quarter finally got an updated design, particularly Washington’s profile. Now facing right, his appearance is slightly changed, based on a design by famed sculptor Laura Gardin Fraser.

Moreover, new reverse designs of American women quarters will be issued periodically. The composition of the coin will remain the same.

2022 Reverse Designs and Release Dates

On February 7, 2022, the U.S. Mint issued the Maya Angelou quarter, the first in a series of five quarters with new commemorative reverse designs of influential figures from American history.

The other designs and their release dates are:

• Sally Ride: Released March 22
• Wilma Mankiller: Released June 14
• Nina Otero-Warren: Released August 16
• Anna May Wong: Released October 25

Once these coins are struck, they will be released into circulation through the Federal Reserve. You can also find them in rolls and bags from the U.S. Mint.

Mints Explained

What does a quarter look like?

For most of us, a quarter is a small, silver-colored coin that makes up our pocket change. But the United States mints quarters in different metals and mint marks to designate where they were minted.

The Denver Mint, for example, mints quarters with a D mint mark. These quarters are made of a clad composition of 91.67% copper and 8.33% nickel. The silver US coins minted in Denver before 1965 have a purity of 90%.

What Is a Mint Mark?

A mint mark is either a symbol, letter, or inscription on a coin that indicates the mint location. Mint marks were first used in Ancient Greece and appeared on coins minted in Aegina around 600 BC.

The first mint marks used in the United States were on copper coins minted in 1838. The mint mark was placed on the obverse, just under the date.

Today, there are four working mints in the United States: Philadelphia, Denver, San Francisco, and West Point. Each mint produces coins with a different mint mark.

• Coins minted in Philadelphia have no mint mark.
• Coins minted in Denver have a “D” mint mark.
• Coins minted in San Francisco have an “S” mint mark.
• Coins minted in West Point have a “W” mint mark.

Rare Quarters and Collectibles

Throughout the quarter’s history, there have been a number of rare editions of the coin. These are generally caused when the Mint makes a mistake, leading to a small number of coins with an unusual appearance. From dimes to half dollars, quarters have been no exception to this.

Today, collectors will pay handsomely for these hard-to-find coins. Coin collecting has become a popular hobby, especially among those who buy precious metals. This is because the face value of a coin is based on more than just its metal content — it is also affected by factors such as condition, age, and rarity.

Given the incredible history behind our nation’s coinage, it’s no wonder that so many people enjoy collecting quarters. Who knows what the next century will bring for this fascinating hobby!

How has the composition of quarters changed over the years, and why?

The composition of quarters has evolved over the years primarily due to economic considerations, including the rising cost of silver and changes in demand for different metals. Initially, quarters were made from silver, reflecting their value and the tradition of using precious metals for coinage. However, by the mid-20th century, the intrinsic value of the silver in coins approached or exceeded the face value of the coins themselves, prompting the United States Mint to seek more cost-effective materials. In 1965, the Mint transitioned to a copper-nickel clad composition for quarters, significantly reducing production costs while maintaining the coin's durability and appearance. This change also helped prevent hoarding and melting of coins for their silver content, ensuring a stable supply of quarters for commerce.

What factors contribute to the rarity and value of certain quarter editions?

Several factors contribute to the rarity and value of certain quarter editions. Beyond minting errors, which can create unique and sought-after coins, the rarity of a quarter can also be influenced by its mintage number, with lower production runs often leading to higher value. Historical significance, such as quarters issued in years with notable events or transitions in design, can also increase interest among collectors. Additionally, the condition of the coin plays a crucial role, with well-preserved examples commanding higher prices. Collectors often look for quarters with minimal wear, sharp details, and original luster, as these qualities are indicative of a coin's overall appeal and rarity.

Are there any plans for future quarter designs beyond the American women series?

While the blog post highlights the introduction of the American women quarters series in 2022, it does not specify future plans for quarter designs beyond this series. The United States Mint has a history of introducing thematic series to celebrate American heritage, such as the Statehood Quarters and America the Beautiful series. Although specific future designs have not been mentioned, it is likely that the Mint will continue to explore new themes that reflect the country's rich history, culture, and achievements. The Mint often involves the public and stakeholders in the selection process for new designs, ensuring that future quarters will continue to be a source of national pride and collector interest.

FAQ

1. What is the composition of a U.S. quarter? Since 1965, U.S. quarters have been composed of a copper-nickel clad, with a core of pure copper and an outer layer of a 75% copper and 25% nickel alloy. Prior to 1965, quarters were made of 90% silver and 10% copper.
2. How much does a quarter weigh? A U.S. quarter weighs 5.67 grams.
3. What is the diameter of a U.S. quarter? The diameter of a U.S. quarter is 24.26 millimeters.
4. Who is featured on the obverse of the current U.S. quarter? The obverse of the current U.S. quarter features a profile of George Washington, the first President of the United States.
5. Why do some quarters have different designs on the reverse? The U.S. Mint has issued quarters with different reverse designs as part of commemorative programs, such as the 50 State Quarters Program, the America the Beautiful Quarters Program, and most recently, the American Women Quarters Program. These programs celebrate the nation's history, geography, and notable individuals.
6. What are Silver Quarters, and how can I identify them? Silver quarters were minted before 1965 and are composed of 90% silver. You can identify them by their date and by conducting a simple sound test (silver coins produce a distinct ringing sound when tapped) or by checking the edge for a solid silver color, without the copper stripe seen in post-1965 quarters.
7. Are there any rare or valuable quarters? Yes, some quarters are considered rare or valuable due to low mintage numbers, errors, or historical significance. Notable examples include the 1932-D and 1932-S Washington quarters, the 1916 Standing Liberty quarter, and certain error coins from various years.
8. How can I start collecting quarters? To start collecting quarters, decide on a focus for your collection, such as a specific series or theme. Obtain a coin album to organize and protect your coins, and then acquire quarters from coin dealers, coin shows, online auctions, or by searching through circulation.
9. What is the value of a quarter beyond its face value? The value of a quarter beyond its face value depends on several factors, including its composition (silver or clad), condition, rarity, and demand among collectors. While most modern clad quarters are worth only their face value, silver quarters and those with rare errors or from limited mintage years can be worth significantly more.
10. How are quarters distributed into circulation? Quarters are distributed into circulation through the Federal Reserve, which orders coins from the U.S. Mint based on demand from banks and financial institutions. These entities then distribute the coins to businesses and the public. Collectors can also purchase rolls and bags of quarters directly from the U.S. Mint, especially for new commemorative issues.

Sources:

Visiting the Denver Mint | Denver Mint

What Is the Width of a Quarter? | Reference

Who designed the quarter? | Williston Herald

The Woman Behind the Long-Awaited Obverse Quarter Design | U.S. Mint

Ancient Greek Coinage | World History Encyclopedia

Mint Marks | U.S. Mint

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