1946 (S) Washington Quarter

Coin Details

Auction Record

$14,950 MS68 01-03-2011 Bowers & Merena

Description

Produced at the San Francisco Mint, the 1946 (S) Washington Quarter is part of the Washington Silver Quarters 1932-1964 series. With a mintage of 4.2 million, this is a scarce issue — the lowest mintage among 3 mint variants, representing only 6% of total 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. Minted during the post-war economic boom, the final era of silver circulating coinage in the United States before the Coinage Act of 1965. The San Francisco Mint, a Gold Rush-era institution, now specializes in proof and collector coinage. Estimated market value ranges from $19 to $49 depending on grade and condition. Struck in 90% silver, 10% copper, weighing 6.3 grams, 24.3 mm in diameter, with a reeded edge. Cataloged as PCGS #5832.

Rarity Notes

Mintage of 4,204,000 pieces. A moderately available issue, though gem examples (MS-65 and above) can be elusive due to the typically weak strikes and contact marks found on silver quarters of this era.

Cross References

PCGS #5832; NGC #15832