1940 Washington Quarter Value Guide

The 1940 Washington Quarter is a significant silver coin struck by the Philadelphia Mint just before the U.S. entry into World War II. Designed by John Flanagan to replace the Standing Liberty series, this 90% silver issue is highly collectible for its historical timing and classic heraldic eagle reverse.

What Is 1940 Washington Quarter Worth?

The typical price range for 1940 Washington Quarter is $10 - $15 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• The current spot price of silver significantly impacts the baseline bullion value of this 90% silver coin.
• Numerical grading by services like PCGS or NGC, particularly for specimens in Mint State (MS) condition.
• The presence of original mint luster and the absence of heavy contact marks or 'bag marks' on the coin's surface.
• Eye appeal, including natural toning or 'rainbow' patinas that can develop over decades of storage.

How to Identify 1940 Washington Quarter?

• Verify the 90% silver and 10% copper composition, which gives the coin a distinct metallic ring compared to modern clad quarters.
• Check the reverse side above the 'Quarter Dollar' text; the 1940 Philadelphia issue lacks a mint mark.
• Look for the 'JF' initials of designer John Flanagan located at the base of Washington's neck on the obverse.
• Examine the crispness of the eagle's breast feathers and the hair lines on Washington's portrait to determine wear levels.

History of 1940 Washington Quarter

Designed by John Flanagan and first released in 1932 to commemorate the 200th anniversary of George Washington's birth, this series replaced the Standing Liberty quarter. The 1940 issue was struck at the Philadelphia Mint during a period of increasing economic production just before the United States entered World War II.