Washington Quarter (1932-1998)

From Silver to Clad: The Evolution of the Washington Quarter (1932-1998)

The Washington Quarter was introduced in 1932 to commemorate the 200th anniversary of George Washington's birth. A design competition was held, resulting in John Flanagan's proposal being selected. The obverse features a left-facing bust of Washington, modeled after a famous sculpture by Jean-Antoine Houdon, with the inscriptions "LIBERTY" above, "IN GOD WE TRUST" to the left, and the date below. The reverse depicts a modernistic eagle perched on a branch, with "E PLURIBUS UNUM" above and "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" along the border, alongside the denomination "QUARTER DOLLAR."

Minted in silver alloy from 1932 to 1964, with the exception of 1933, the Washington Quarter transitioned to a copper-nickel clad composition after 1964. Collectors can easily find later-date coins in various conditions, ranging from well-worn to superb Uncirculated. Additionally, Proof versions are available for select years, including 1936-1942 and 1950-1964, making this coin an accessible choice for both novice and experienced numismatists.