1948 Washington Quarter Dollar (Silver Composition)
Coin (Numismatic) · Not applicable; this is silver coinage with a metallic grey patina.
Purity: None (0%). This item is composed of 90% silver and 10% copper. It contains no gold.
Type
Coin (Numismatic)
Purity
None (0%). This item is composed of 90% silver and 10% copper. It contains no gold.
Gold Type
Not applicable; this is silver coinage with a metallic grey patina.
Weight
6.25 grams (standard mint weight)
Description
A circulated 1948 United States Washington Quarter. The obverse features the left-facing portrait of George Washington designed by John Flanagan. The coin shows moderate wear on the high points of the hair and lettering.
Key Features
John Flanagan's 1932 design; 90% silver content; '1948' date stamp.
Color & Finish
Silver-grey with significant circulation patina; dull luster consistent with aged silver.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Stamped with 'LIBERTY', 'IN GOD WE TRUST', and date '1948' on obverse.
Dimensions Estimate
24.3 mm diameter, 1.75 mm thickness
Gemstones & Inlays
None; struck metal only.
Clasp & Closure
Reeded edge (milled edge) for security and weight verification.
Chain & Links
Solid metal planchet construction.
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-struck via industrial coin presses; high-relief detail typical of mid-century US Mint dies.
Authentication Indicators
Correct strike depth for 1948; reeded edge present; weight/diameter ratio appears consistent with US Mint standards.
Origin & Maker
United States Mint (Philadelphia, Denver, or San Francisco)
Era & Period
Mid-Century Modern (1948 post-WWII era)
Age Estimate
76 years (Dated 1948)
Cultural Significance
A staple of American commerce during the post-WWII economic boom and a representative of US silver coinage before the 1965 transition to copper-nickel clad.
Condition Notes
Very Good (VG) to Fine (F) circulation grade. Notable surface scratches, dings, and flattened details on hair.
Value Estimate
Primarily melt value (approx. $4-6 USD based on silver spot) plus a small numismatic premium for collectors.
Care & Maintenance
Do not clean or polish numismatic coins as it destroys collector value. Store in a PVC-free flip or capsule to prevent further oxidation.
Similar Items
1948-D or 1948-S quarters; 1932-1964 silver quarters; modern clad quarters (post-1964).
Interesting Facts
The Washington Quarter was originally intended to be a one-year commemorative for Washington's 200th birthday in 1932 but proved so popular it replaced the Standing Liberty quarter.