Washington Quarter (1932-1998)
Obverse (Front) Design
Reverse (Back) Design
Coin Specifications
Date Range
Denomination
Designer / Engraver
Mints
Composition
Precious Metal Content
Weight
Diameter
Edge
Mintage
History & Background
The Washington Quarter was introduced in 1932 to mark the 200th anniversary of George Washington’s birth. It replaced the Standing Liberty quarter as the regular quarter design. The design by sculptor John Flanagan was based on a famous bust of Washington by Jean-Antoine Houdon.
The coins were made in 90% silver until 1964. From 1965 the metal was changed to copper-nickel clad. The 1932-D and 1932-S coins had low mintages and are the best-known key dates of the series.
In 1975 and 1976 a special reverse showing a colonial drummer boy, marked with the dual date 1776–1976, was used to mark the nation’s bicentennial.
Collecting Tips
- Pre-1965 quarters contain silver and are often bought for their metal value.
- 1932-D and 1932-S are the key dates; check for authenticity.
- Look at Washington’s hair above the ear for wear.
Photographs by Grade
Washington Quarter (1932-1998) (1932–1998) — Photographs by Grade
MS63
MS64
MS65
MS66
MS67
Frequently Asked Questions about the Washington Quarter (1932-1998)
Are Washington quarters silver?
Those dated 1964 or earlier are 90% silver. Later quarters are copper-nickel clad.
How much silver is in a silver Washington quarter?
About 0.1808 troy ounces of pure silver.
What are the key dates?
1932-D and 1932-S are the best-known key dates.
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