1938 Proof Washington Quarter

Coin Details

Auction Record

$13,800 PR68 09-01-2005 Heritage Auctions

Description

The 1938 Proof Washington Quarter is a proof quarter struck at the Philadelphia Mint, part of the Washington Silver Quarters 1932-1964 series. With a mintage of 8,045, this is a rare issue — the higher-mintage of the two mint variants, representing 0% of production. The obverse features George Washington facing left, based on a 1786 bust by Jean-Antoine Houdon and the reverse displays an eagle perched on a bundle of arrows with olive branches below. Struck during the Great Depression, when mintages dropped sharply and the United States abandoned the gold standard in 1933. As a proof issue, this coin was struck multiple times on specially prepared polished planchets using polished dies, producing mirror-like fields and frosted design elements prized by collectors. Struck at the original U.S. Mint facility, in continuous operation since 1792. Estimated market value is approximately $292. Struck in 90% silver, 10% copper, weighing 6.3 grams, 24.3 mm in diameter, with a reeded edge. Cataloged as PCGS #5977.

Rarity Notes

With a proof mintage of only 8,045, this is one of the scarcer pre-war proof Washington quarters. Pre-war proofs are significantly rarer than their post-1950 counterparts and command strong premiums in all grades.

Cross References

PCGS #5977; NGC #15977