How many times did we mention that historical background can and will significantly upscale the prices of your collectible items? Too many, we think. However, this is a fact that we can’t skip since people tend to forget to explore this part pretty often. Now why did we start this article by alarming you about the importance of historical background?

Well, the time has come to talk about a pretty special coin, the 1941 Washington Quarter coin. As you all know World War II started in 1939. Also, you know that the US didn’t interfere in it until 1941. But why is this important?

That means that the US didn’t change its coinage for the war until 1942. The only coins that were altered to war coinage were pennies and nickels while quarters remained made of the same metal until 1965. That is the historical fact that makes the 1941 quarter coin a special coin.

So if you have a 1941 Washington Quarter, you might be holding a coin that is very valuable. In fact, this coin is a treasure many collectors seek, so naturally we needed to find out how much it really worth. In this article, you’ll learn about the 1941 quarter value, where you can trade it, and how can you determine its real value.

Short History Fact Checking

All Washington’s quarters were made in honor of the first US President, George Washington. If you didn’t know, Washington was one of the Founding Fathers who wrote the Constitution. He was also known against many colonial practices such as rulers on currency. Instead, he promoted the goddess Libertas as a symbol of liberty, freedom, equality, and independence.

However, all that changed in 1909, when Congress decided to place an image of Abraham Lincoln on the cent coin, in honor of his 100th birthday. Following this example, in 1932 the first Washington Quarter was released to mark 200 years from his birth. The plan was to keep this design for just one year, but people liked it so much that it remains today.

The main features of the 1941 Washington quarter

The 1941 quarter coin was made from a metal composition that consist of 90% silver and 10% copper. The weight is 6.30 grams, while the diameter is 24.30 millimeters. Like many other coins, it features a reeded edge, which is hard to copy and prevents counterfeiting.

What is characteristic of quarter coins is that they feature an image of George Washington facing left, on the obverse side. Below his chin, the American motto “IN GOD WE TRUST” is inscribed. While above his head the word  “LIBERTY” is written close to the coin’s rim. The initials of sculptor John Flanagan are printed on the base of Washington’s neckline.

1941-washington-quarter

On the reverse side is an image of an eagle with its wings spread out. The eagle grips 13 arrows in his talons, while beneath him are two olive branches. Many people don’t know, but 13 arrows represent the original 13 colonies. Above the eagle’s head is the inscription “E PLURIBUS UNUM.”

Close to the upper rim of the coin the “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” is inscribed. While at the bottom you will find Quarter Dollar. Considering how crowded the reverse side of the coin is, the process of minting involves several strikes. This is the main reason why there are so many errors on these coins.

The mint mark on the 1941 quarter is located on the coin’s reverse side, just between the olive branches and the inscription of the denomination.

1941 Washington Quarter Value Chart

The value of the coin is greatly influenced by condition (errors will enhance the price significantly), mint mark, and mintage. These factors will determine the rarity of the coin and with that demand as well.

If you didn’t know mintage will decrease the value of your coin significantly. Also, the location of the mint will affect the price. Here is the list of varieties of Washington quarter produced in 1941:

  • 1941 Washington quarter – no mint mark – Coins minted in Philadelphia, and proof coins

1941-washington-quarter–no-mint-mark

  • 1941 Washington quarter – D mint mark – Coins minted in Denver

1941-washington-quarter–D-mint-mark

  • 1941 Washington quarter – S mint mark – Coins minted in San Francisco

1941-washington-quarter-S-mint-mark

1941 Washington quarter errors

Error coins are very attractive to collectors since they are usually worth a lot more than regular coins. Of course, there are cases where an error coin is sold for tens of thousands of dollars, but also there were specimens that were sold for a few dollars.

Error coins refer to those that have been produced incorrectly by a mint. They can contain a wide variety of errors, from minor scratches and blemishes to major physical defects like missing a part.

The most common errors are coins with cracks, coins minted on wrong planchets, coins with off-center strikes, coins with die caps, etc. However, not all errors occur constantly. Here is the list of the most valuable error coins in the 1941 Washington quarter.

1941 Quarter double die error

This occurs when words, numbers, and images overlap during the minting prices due to rubbing and shifting. However, double-die eros on the reverse and obverse sides on circulated coins are not very valuable and usually cost up to $100.

Yet such an error on a rare coin that is highly graded is a jackpot. A 1941 Washington quarter coin with this error was estimated and sold for $4,250 in 2019.

1941 Quarter clipped planchet error

A clipped planchet error is when a flat or crescent-shaped piece is missing from a side of a coin. This is a stamping mistake and the portion of the coin that is missing can be minor or major. An error like this is pretty rare so coins with this type of error are always worth a lot.

1941 Quarter die cracks error

A frequent error on coins is a die crack. This occurs when the coin’s surface is cracked by the die that is used for imprinting. These cracks can be seen on the reverse and obverse sides. Take a good look at the text, or at the eagle’s wings, and check the spaces between the letters as well.

A 1941 Washington quarter coin comes with two varieties of this error, the Obverse Die Crack and Reverse Die Crack.

1941 “S” Quarter with small and large S error

Some 1941 Washington quarters come with very distinctive mint marks. This unique error makes them extremely attractive to collectors. A limited number of coins feature an error in the form of an enlarged letter S and an additional small letter -s.  These coins are extremely rare and sought-after so you should expect a high price.

1941 Quarter lamination error

Lamination errors are planchet defects. This occurs when a coin’s surface flakes and breaks. It is believed that the main reason why this happens is due to the alloy’s impurities. Lamination error is when metal splits along the horizontal plane, this can appear before or after the strike.

Table of the most valuable 1941 Washington quarters

Name and year Mintage and varieties Metal composition Diameter and weight Price
1941 Washington Quarter, MS68 PCGS Secure. CAC 79,047,287 90% Silver

10% Copper

24.3 mm

6.30 grams

$23,500
1941 Washington Quarter, MS68 PCGS 79,047,287 90% Silver

10% Copper

 

24.3 mm

6.30 grams

 

$23,000
1941-D Washington Quarter, MS68 PCGS. CAC 16,714,800 90% Silver

10% Copper

 

24.3 mm

6.30 grams

 

$20,700
1941 Washington Quarter, MS68 PCGS Secure. CAC 79,047,287 90% Silver

10% Copper

 

24.3 mm

6.30 grams

 

$18,800
1941-D Washington Quarter, MS68* NGC. 16,714,800 90% Silver

10% Copper

 

24.3 mm

6.30 grams

 

$17,825
1941 Washington Quarter, Proof coin PR68 PCGS. CAC. 15,287 90% Silver

10% Copper

 

24.3 mm

6.30 grams

 

$15,862
1941 Washington Quarter, PR68 PCGS. CAC 79,047,287 90% Silver

10% Copper

 

24.3 mm

6.30 grams

 

$14,950
1941 Washington Quarter, Proof coin PR68 PCGS. CAC. 15,287 90% Silver

10% Copper

 

24.3 mm

6.30 grams

 

$14,100
1941 Washington Quarter, MS68 * NGC 79,047,287 90% Silver

10% Copper

 

24.3 mm

6.30 grams

 

$13,800
1941 Washington Quarter, PR68 PCGS. CAC 79,047,287 90% Silver

10% Copper

 

24.3 mm

6.30 grams

 

$12,925
1941-D Washington Quarter, MS68 PCGS. CAC 16,714,800 90% Silver

10% Copper

 

24.3 mm

6.30 grams

 

$12,000
1941-D Washington Quarter, MS68 PCGS. CAC 16,714,800 90% Silver

10% Copper

 

24.3 mm

6.30 grams

 

$10,800
1941-S Washington Quarter,  MS68 ★ NGC 16,080,000 90% Silver

10% Copper

 

24.3 mm

6.30 grams

 

$10,281
1941 Washington Quarter, PR68 PCGS. CAC 79,047,287 90% Silver

10% Copper

 

24.3 mm

6.30 grams

 

$8,821
1941-S Washington Quarter, MS67+ PCGS. CAC 16,080,000 90% Silver

10% Copper

 

24.3 mm

6.30 grams

 

$5,875
1941 Washington Quarter, PR68 PCGS. CAC 79,047,287 90% Silver

10% Copper

 

24.3 mm

6.30 grams

 

$5,040
1941-S Washington Quarter MS67 PCGS. CAC 16,080,000 90% Silver

10% Copper

 

24.3 mm

6.30 grams

 

$4,465
1941 Washington Quarter Doubled Die Obverse, FS-102, MS66+ PCGS N/A 90% Silver

10% Copper

 

24.3 mm

6.30 grams

 

$4,080
1941-D Washington Quarter, MS67 PCGS 16,714,800 90% Silver

10% Copper

 

24.3 mm

6.30 grams

 

$3,737
1941-S Washington Quarter, MS68★ NGC 16,080,000 90% Silver

10% Copper

 

24.3 mm

6.30 grams

 

$3,720
1941-D Washington Quarter, MS67 NGC 16,714,800 90% Silver

10% Copper

 

24.3 mm

6.30 grams

 

$3,525
1941-S Washington Quarter, MS67 PCGS. CAC. 16,080,000 90% Silver

10% Copper

 

24.3 mm

6.30 grams

 

$3,450
1941-D Washington Quarter,  MS67 PCGS 16,714,800 90% Silver

10% Copper

 

24.3 mm

6.30 grams

 

$3,450
1941-S Washington Quarter, MS67 PCGS. CAC 16,080,000 90% Silver

10% Copper

 

24.3 mm

6.30 grams

 

$3,220
1941-D Washington Quarter  MS67 PCGS 16,714,800 90% Silver

10% Copper

 

24.3 mm

6.30 grams

 

$2,990
1941-S  Washington Quarter, MS67+ PCGS 16,080,000 90% Silver

10% Copper

 

24.3 mm

6.30 grams

 

$2,820
1941-D Washington Quarter Doubled Die Obverse, FS-101, MS67 PCGS 16,714,800 90% Silver

10% Copper

 

24.3 mm

6.30 grams

 

$2,640
1941 Washington Quarter — Broad struck and 38% Clipped Planchet — MS64 PCGS N/A 90% Silver

10% Copper

 

24.3 mm

6.30 grams

 

$1,057

Also Read:

This Is What You Need To Know To Determine The Value Of The 1941 Washington Quarter

Determining the real value of your coin isn’t rocket science that is true. However, you can’t just jump into it without having any knowledge about it beforehand. I’m pretty sure you know those basic things like old coins from circulation must have some true signs of wear and tear uncirculated coins must have a mint shine, etc.

But, to be truly able to determine the value you need to take into consideration these three factors:

  • How rare is it – Rare coins are the holy grail in the numismatic collection. Collectors are willing to pay a small fortune just to get that one special coin that no one else has. That is why constant learning and research are necessary. You can never know when will a new kind of error or rare coin appear.
  • Minting errors – It is strange how a flaw or defect can increase the value of your coin. In most cases, a damaged coin will be worth much more than the one in perfect condition. If you want to earn some money from collecting, then aim to find as many error coins as you can. These can be traded or sold for big bucks.
  • Condition and grade – The current condition of your coin will affect its value significantly. Start from yourself, would you invest money in an item that just doesn’t look good? If you aren’t sure about your coin’s condition, take it for appraisal. This way you will get it graded, and learn exactly how much it’s worth.

Grading system and the effect it has on the value of your coin

When it comes to grading coins, the most reliable is the Sheldon Scale. Grades on this scale go from poor (P-1) to perfect mint state (MS-70). Keep in mind that collectors avoid investing in coins that are graded with a grade under (VG-8), no matter how rare the coins are.

Sometimes it can be pretty hard to determine the grade on your own, so it is best to let professionals do that instead. The grade is besides the demand, the “IT” factor that dictates the value of your coin.

However, it is always good to know the basic criteriums for each grade so you can apply this knowledge when you are looking to buy a new coin. Here is the list of grades and things you should know:

  • (P-1) Poor – These coins are hardly recognizable and destroyed. In most cases, they do not worth even a face value.
  • (FR-2) Fair – A coin with this grade show signs of wear and tear, the high points are all flattened and the rims are smooth. However, there should be no major damage. At least some of the details must be readable so the coin can be identified.
  • (G-4) Fair – These coins do not have major damages, all important details are flattened but still visible. Inscriptions and printing have merged with rims in some smaller or bigger 
  • (VG-8) Very Good – These coins have all high-point details visible but faintly. The coin is in good shape, with some signs of wear and tear. Usually, the details in the central area are the ones that are missing.
  • (F-12) Good – These coins show lighter signs of use, yet major details are clear and easily recognizable. However, the rims are smooth and flattened to the point it’s almost isolated from the field.
  • (VF-20) Very Fine – A coin with this grade has most of the major details visible, and the rims on both sides are in good condition and separated from the field. Keep in mind that a coin with this grade must have all the letters of the word LIBERTY readable.
  • (EF-40) Extremely Fine – These coins show very light signs of usage. Even though they come from circulation all the elements are bold and sharp.
  • (AU-50) Uncirculated – These are coins that were never released to circulation. In case there are some minor signs of damage like hairlines, tiny scratches, or blemishes, those are contact marks that occurred during the production.
  • (AU-58) Uncirculated Choice – These coins are almost perfect, with perfect mint shine. There are only maybe some small contact marks but they are hard to notice.
  • (MS-60) Mint State Basal – There are no signs of wear. Eventually, you can notice a reduced luster, minor blemishes, or fine scratches.
  • (MS-63) Mint State Acceptable – Coins with minor contact marks and nicks, and reduced shine. The strike is weak or average.
  • (MS-65) Mint State Choice – Coins with perfect mint shine, and little to no contact marks. Quick and severe strike paired with a good eye appeal.
  • (MS-68) Mint State Premium Quality – Coins without any obvious contact marks and an exceptional luster. The strike is quick and sharp.
  • (MS-69) Almost Perfect Mint State – These coins have no contact marks, in cases there are any, they can’t be seen with the naked eye, only under magnifying glass. What is characteristic of these coins is the perfect mint shine and the sharp and appealing strike.
  • (MS-70) Mint State Perfect – These coins are the closest to perfection. In most cases, they do not have any imperfections. The coins are perfectly centered and their strike is crisp. Planchet is perfectly bright and with original luster.

Where Can You Buy Or Sell 1941 Washington Quarters?

Buying and selling coins always come with some dose of risk. Especially if you are aiming to buy an error coin. These coins are very tricky to estimate at first glance. Sometimes you won’t be sure if the error on the coin originates from the Mint or if someone purposely damaged it. Unfortunately, the market is full of scammers and fake coins.

The only way to avoid unpleasant situations is to hire a professional to help you out. These people can recommend reliable trading sources and dealers, as well to grade the coin that you are interested in. No matter how sure you are, make a habit to ask them for advice, it is always better to be safe.

If you find a reliable dealer or auction house your job here is done. From that point, almost everything will go in the right way. Auction houses that are most respected, are Heritage Auctions, PCGS, Coins For Sale, and Littleton Coin Company.

However, if you are a seller we recommend you explore the market on eBay, Etsy, and LiveAuctioneers. Here you will find a lot of valuable information, such as demand, and prices.  This information will help you decide if this is the right time to sell your coin, or if it is better to wait a bit.

If you decide to look and buy coins on these web platforms, don’t be lazy and do thorough research. Investigate your potential dealer, look for feedback, and selling history. Coins are pretty expensive collectibles, so many people will try to sell you a coin for a much higher price than it actually is.

Also Read: 1941 Penny Value Chart (Worth Million Dollars?)

FAQ

Can you still use old quarters?

The answer is no. No matter which Washington quarter you have it is still legal to use. In fact, almost all US currencies, both coins, and banknotes, remain legal tender. However, if you have some really old coins or banknotes, it is way better to keep them and wait until they gain value higher than just regular face value.

Where is the mint mark placed on the 1941 Washington quarter?

It is not surprising to see that mint mark on coins change place to fit the design better. When it comes to 1941 quarter coins, you can locate the mint mark on the reverse side, just above the eagle’s feathers and writing American Quarter, and left of the olive branch.

In case there is no mint mark, there are two options – your coin is a proof set coin, or a regular coin minted in the Philadelphia mint.

Is the 1941 Washington quarter made from pure silver?

No. All coins made from precious metals are mixed in small amounts with some other metal, like copper or nickel. The reason is that pure silver and pure gold are too soft so they are alloyed with other metals to gain the necessary form and strength.

Is there an app for mobile phones that can help identify error coins?

Yes! This app is called Coinoscope and it is a visual search engine for coins. This app can help you out with coin recognition. All you have to do is take a picture of a coin with your phone camera and upload it, and the app will show you a list of coins with similar features.

However, we can’t guarantee the app’s precision, but we would still recommend you try it out. At least it will narrow down your options, and that ain’t bad at all.

It Is Time For Recapitulation

If you love history, and shiny items, then coin collecting is something you should try. Since how far back coins go in history this can be a pretty exciting adventure for you. Not to mention that this hobby can be pretty lucrative. All you need to do is pay attention and have a keen eye for details.

There are so many different coins you can collect, but the quarters are among the most popular. But why? Rarity and history. The first quarter coin was minted in 1796, so imagine how many different quarter coins are at your disposal. Also, it is believed that this group of coins consists abundance of minting errors, and you know that collectors are attracted to error coins like flies to honey.

Hopefully, this article answered at least some of your burning questions and helped you figure out how to handle your precious coins. In case you know some information that we didn’t mention here, please do not hesitate to share your opinions and advice in the comment section below.

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