1978 D Washington Quarter Value Guide

The 1978 D Washington Quarter is a significant piece of late 1970s American coinage, featuring John Flanagan's iconic 1932 design. Struck at the Denver Mint with a massive production of over 500 million units, it remains a staple for collectors focusing on high-grade clad era circulation strikes.

What affects the value of 1978 D Washington Quarter?

• Numerical grade from services like PCGS or NGC, with MS67 or higher fetching significant premiums.
• Presence of a 'Full Drum' or exceptional strike clarity on the eagle's feathers and Washington's hair.
• Mint errors such as off-center strikes, double dies, or clipped planchets which increase value beyond face value.
• Luster and surface preservation, as most of the 500 million minted entered heavy circulation.

How to Identify 1978 D Washington Quarter?

• Locate the 'D' mint mark on the obverse side, positioned to the right of Washington's ponytail.
• Verify the copper-nickel clad composition by checking for the distinct copper stripe along the coin's edge.
• Confirm the 1978 date centered at the bottom of the obverse below Washington's bust.
• Ensure the reverse features the traditional eagle with spread wings, as the Bicentennial design ended in 1976.

History of 1978 D Washington Quarter

Designed by John Flanagan, the Washington Quarter was first released in 1932 to commemorate the 200th anniversary of George Washington's birth. By 1978, these coins were produced in massive quantities for general circulation, with the Denver Mint striking over 500 million units that year.