1942 Washington Quarter Value Guide

The 1942 Washington Quarter is a prized piece of American numismatic history, minted during the height of World War II. As a 90% silver coin featuring John Flanagan's classic design, it represents the era before the transition to copper-nickel clad compositions in 1965.

What affects the value of 1942 Washington Quarter?

• The current market price of silver bullion significantly impacts the baseline melt value of this 90% silver coin.
• The presence of a 'D' or 'S' mint mark can increase collectibility compared to the more common Philadelphia strikes.
• The coin's physical grade, specifically the level of detail remaining on Washington's hair and the eagle's breast feathers.
• The presence of 'Full Steps' or original mint luster, which can push the value toward the higher end of the $5-$10 range.

How to Identify 1942 Washington Quarter?

• Verify the 90% silver and 10% copper composition, which gives the coin a distinct metallic ring compared to modern clad quarters.
• Look for the '1942' date clearly struck on the obverse below George Washington's bust.
• Check the reverse side above the 'Quarter Dollar' text for a mint mark (D for Denver, S for San Francisco, or none for Philadelphia).
• Examine the edge of the coin; a solid silver-colored edge without a copper stripe indicates an authentic silver strike.

History of 1942 Washington Quarter

The Washington Quarter was first minted in 1932 to commemorate the 200th anniversary of George Washington's birth. The original design, by John Flanagan, featured Washington's profile on the obverse and an eagle on the reverse. From 1932 to 1964, these quarters were composed of 90% silver. In 1965, the composition was changed to a copper-nickel clad due to rising silver prices, making the 1942 quarter a significant silver coin from an earlier era.