1939 Washington Quarter Value Guide

The 1939 Washington Quarter is a significant piece of American numismatic history, originally designed by sculptor John Flanagan to commemorate the 200th anniversary of George Washington's birth. While initially intended as a one-year commemorative issue, its enduring popularity ensured its place as a staple of U.S. currency, with these early pre-1965 examples being highly sought after for their 90% silver composition.

What Is 1939 Washington Quarter Worth?

The typical price range for 1939 Washington Quarter is $6 - $8 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, as each coin contains approximately 0.1808 troy ounces of pure silver.
• The presence of a mint mark, with Denver (D) and San Francisco (S) strikes often carrying a premium over Philadelphia issues.
• The overall strike quality and preservation of fine details on Washington's hair and the eagle's feathers.
• The degree of surface wear, ranging from heavily circulated 'Good' condition to 'Uncirculated' specimens.

How to Identify 1939 Washington Quarter?

• Verify the 90% silver and 10% copper composition, which gives the coin a distinct metallic ring compared to modern clad versions.
• Check the reverse side for a mint mark (D for Denver or S for San Francisco) located below the eagle's wreath; no mark indicates the Philadelphia mint.
• Look for the designer's initials 'JF' for John Flanagan at the base of Washington's neck on the obverse.
• Confirm the date '1939' is clearly struck on the bottom center of the obverse side.

History of 1939 Washington Quarter

The Washington Quarter was first minted in 1932 to commemorate the 200th anniversary of George Washington's birth. Originally intended as a one-year commemorative, its popularity led to its continuous production. Quarters minted before 1965, like this 1939 example, are composed of 90% silver, making them intrinsically more valuable than their modern counterparts. This design was created by sculptor John Flanagan.