1938 Washington Quarter Value Guide

The 1938 Washington Quarter is a significant silver issue designed by John Flanagan to commemorate the 200th anniversary of George Washington's birth. With a relatively low mintage of just 9.4 million coins from the Philadelphia Mint, it remains a key target for numismatists completing a full date and mint set.

What Is 1938 Washington Quarter Worth?

The typical price range for 1938 Washington Quarter is $10 - $12 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• The current market price of silver bullion significantly impacts the base melt value.
• Overall strike quality and the presence of original mint luster increase collector demand.
• Surface preservation, specifically the lack of heavy scratches or 'bag marks' on Washington's cheek.
• The relatively low mintage of 9.4 million compared to high-volume years in the 1940s and 50s.

How to Identify 1938 Washington Quarter?

• Verify the 90% silver and 10% copper composition which gives the coin a distinct metallic ring.
• Look for the designer's initials 'JF' located at the base of Washington's neck.
• Check for the absence of a mint mark, indicating it was struck at the Philadelphia Mint.
• Examine the reverse for the crisp details of the eagle's wings and the olive branch.

History of 1938 Washington Quarter

Designed by John Flanagan to celebrate the 200th anniversary of George Washington's birth, this series replaced the Standing Liberty quarter in 1932. The 1938 issue from the Philadelphia Mint had a relatively low mintage of 9.4 million coins compared to later years, making it a desirable piece for collectors assembling a complete date and mint set.