The 1943 Washington quarter isn’t just another coin – it’s a piece of American history and a prized collectible for coin enthusiasts. Made of 90% silver and 10% copper, this coin was part of a broader range of Washington quarters minted from 1932 to 1964, all with the same silver composition.
After 1965, however, quarters shifted to a copper and nickel blend. This change was due to rising silver prices and increasing hoarding of silver coins, leading Congress to pass the Coinage Act of 1965, which removed silver from most circulating coins.
A Glimpse into the 1943 Washington Quarter’s Design and Meaning
John Flanagan designed the iconic look of the Washington quarter. On the obverse side, George Washington’s image is prominently displayed with “LIBERTY” above and the American motto, “IN GOD WE TRUST,” below.
The year “1943” is inscribed at the bottom, marking the coin’s mintage year. Flip the coin, and you’ll find an eagle clutching arrows, symbolizing America’s readiness to defend itself. Below the eagle, two olive branches signify the nation’s pursuit of peace. Inscriptions include “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA,” “E PLURIBUS UNUM,” and “QUARTER DOLLAR.”
Key Varieties of the 1943 Washington Silver Quarter
- 1943-P Washington Quarter (Philadelphia Mint): With over 99 million quarters struck, the 1943 Philadelphia Mint issue is the most common. Despite the high mintage, the value can still vary, especially in higher, uncirculated grades.
- 1943-D Washington Quarter (Denver Mint): About 16 million quarters were produced at the Denver Mint, making it a less common variety. The Denver issue can have a slightly higher value, especially in uncirculated or superb condition.
- 1943-S Washington Quarter (San Francisco Mint): The San Francisco Mint produced about 21 million quarters in 1943, and these often command higher prices. Some 1943-S quarters were struck with a proof-like appearance due to the mint’s frequent re-polishing of dies, which can make these semi-proof-like coins highly desirable for collectors.
What Affects the Value of a 1943 Washington Quarter?
Several factors influence the worth of the 1943 Washington Silver Quarter:
- Condition: Coins in uncirculated or near-perfect condition are valued higher. Grades such as MS-67 and MS-68 (on the Sheldon scale) often see steep increases in value.
- Mint Mark: Quarters from the San Francisco Mint with an “S” mark are generally more valuable, especially in higher grades. Philadelphia quarters (no mint mark) are usually more common but can still be valuable in pristine condition.
- Special Characteristics: Some San Francisco quarters have a semi-proof-like finish due to re-polished dies, adding uniqueness and desirability.
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Understanding Coin Grades: The Sheldon Scale
Coin collectors often use the Sheldon Scale to grade a coin’s condition, from (P-1) Poor to (MS-70) Mint State Perfect. This scale helps set a coin’s value based on its appearance and condition. For instance:
- G-4 (Good): Shows considerable wear, but major details are visible.
- EF-40 (Extremely Fine): Light wear on high points; most details are clear.
- MS-65 (Mint State Choice): Sharp details, minimal contact marks, and an impressive shine.
- MS-70 (Mint State Perfect): Perfect in every detail, with no visible flaws, even under magnification.
How Much is a 1943 Washington Silver Quarter Worth?
Today, the 1943 Washington quarter’s face value of 25 cents doesn’t reflect its collectible value. Its intrinsic silver value is about $4.50, but the coin’s worth can rise substantially depending on its grade and mint mark. For instance, some higher-grade 1943-D or 1943-S quarters have fetched prices in the thousands at auction.
| Coin Variety | Grade | Estimated Value Range |
|---|---|---|
| 1943-P | MS-66 | $4.95 – $80 |
| 1943-D | MS-67 | $27 – $180 |
| 1943-S | MS-68 | $336 – $23,000 |
Where Can You Buy or Sell a 1943 Washington Quarter?
For those looking to buy or sell a 1943 Washington Silver Quarter, options include online marketplaces like eBay and Amazon, specialized coin websites, and local coin shops or antique stores.
Pawnshops and auction houses can also be excellent resources for finding rare coins, and they often handle coins of exceptional quality.
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Final Thoughts
The 1943 Washington Quarter is much more than a piece of change; it’s a connection to American history and a collectible item that continues to hold, if not increase its value. Whether you’re a seasoned coin collector or just starting, the 1943 Washington Silver Quarter is a fascinating coin with stories to tell and value to offer.
Editorial Note: This article was created through automated technology, with all details verified and polished by our editorial expert.