Washington Quarters

1932- present.

6.25 grams of 90% silver and 10% copper (1932-1964).

Silver was no longer used in the production of the Washington Quarter starting in 1965. Prior to that, from 1932 to 1964, the Washington Quarter was composed of 90% silver and 10% copper. However, due to rising silver prices and a coin shortage, the U.S. Mint changed the composition in 1965 to a clad composition of copper-nickel: 75% copper and 25% nickel, with a pure copper core. This change was made to reduce production costs and to keep coins in circulation. The silver quarters were subsequently hoarded by the public, making them less common in circulation today.

1932-D.

The key date for the Washington Quarter series, in terms of rarity and value, is the 1932-D (Denver Mint) and the 1932-S (San Francisco Mint) Washington Quarters. Both of these quarters had low mintages and are considered the key dates for the series. Of the two, the 1932-D is often considered slightly rarer and more valuable, but both are highly sought after by collectors, especially in higher grades.

It's important to note that while these are the key dates for the series, the value of any specific coin can vary based on its condition, grade, and other factors. Always consult a reputable coin dealer or pricing guide for the most current values.

Yes, there have been different designs of the Washington Quarter over the years. Here's a brief overview:

Original Design (1932-1998): The original design featured a bust of George Washington on the obverse and an eagle on the reverse. This design was introduced in 1932 to commemorate the 200th anniversary of George Washington's birth. The obverse was designed by John Flanagan, and it remained largely unchanged until 1999.

50 State Quarters Program (1999-2008): In 1999, the U.S. Mint began the 50 State Quarters Program, which featured a unique design for each of the 50 U.S. states on the reverse of the quarter. The obverse continued to feature George Washington, but with a slightly modified design. A new state design was released every 10 weeks in the order that the states joined the Union.

District of Columbia and U.S. Territories Quarters Program (2009): After the completion of the 50 State Quarters Program, the U.S. Mint released six additional quarters in 2009 to honor the District of Columbia and the five U.S. territories: Puerto Rico, Guam, American Samoa, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and the Northern Mariana Islands.

America the Beautiful Quarters Program (2010-2021): This program featured 56 unique designs showcasing national parks and other national sites from each state, the District of Columbia, and the five U.S. territories. Five new designs were released each year.

General George Washington Crossing the Delaware Quarter (2022): This design was introduced in 2022 and features a depiction of General George Washington crossing the Delaware River during the American Revolutionary War on the obverse. The reverse returns to the original eagle design but with modifications.

Future designs may continue to be introduced as part of new programs or initiatives by the U.S. Mint. It's always a good idea to keep an eye on announcements from the Mint for any updates or changes to coin designs.

The obverse (front) constantly has George Washington ( faceing left and later right) while the reverse (back) has seen great change and variety. Originally an eagle with wings spread, there have been years with a colonial drummer (bicentennial quarters), state quarters and America the beautiful quarters. These quarters have designs related to specific states and national parks.

John Flanagan.