1961 Proof Washington Quarter

Coin Details

Auction Record

$798 PR70 06-16-2018 eBay

Description

The 1961 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 3.0 million, this is a scarce issue — the lowest mintage among 3 mint variants, representing only 2% 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. 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 $26. Struck in 90% silver, 10% copper, weighing 6.3 grams, 24.3 mm in diameter, with a reeded edge. Cataloged as PCGS #5993.

Rarity Notes

Proof mintage of 3,028,244. Readily available in most proof grades. Deep cameo examples with strong contrast between frosted devices and mirror fields command the strongest premiums.

Cross References

PCGS #5993; NGC #15993