1979-D Washington Quarter Value Guide

The 1979-D Washington Quarter is a staple of modern American numismatics, representing the continued legacy of the 1932 commemorative design. Struck at the Denver Mint, this copper-nickel clad coin is highly collectible in uncirculated grades due to its historical transition from the Bicentennial era back to the standard eagle reverse.

What affects the value of 1979-D Washington Quarter?

• Numerical Grade: While circulated examples are worth face value ($0.25), MS67 or higher specimens can command significant premiums.
• Mint Errors: Look for rare 'filled D' mint marks or double die strikes which increase collector interest.
• Luster: Original mint bloom and a lack of contact marks significantly enhance the market value for Denver strikes.
• Strike Quality: Sharpness of the eagle's feathers on the reverse and Washington's hair details affects the final appraisal.

How to Identify 1979-D Washington Quarter?

• Locate the 'D' mint mark on the obverse side, positioned to the right of George Washington's ponytail.
• Verify the composition is copper-nickel clad copper, which should show a distinct copper stripe along the coin's edge.
• Check for the designer initials 'JF' (John Flanagan) at the base of Washington's neck.
• Confirm the date '1979' is clearly struck with sharp relief on the bottom center of the obverse.

History of 1979-D 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 adoption as the standard quarter design, replacing the Standing Liberty Quarter. The 'D' mint mark indicates it was produced at the Denver Mint.