1964 Washington Quarter (Silver Coin)
Coin (Numismatic/Bullion) · Not Applicable (90% Silver, 10% Copper alloy)
Purity: 0% Gold / Not Applicable (Item is 90% Silver)
Type
Coin (Numismatic/Bullion)
Purity
0% Gold / Not Applicable (Item is 90% Silver)
Gold Type
Not Applicable (90% Silver, 10% Copper alloy)
Weight
6.25 grams (standard for 90% silver quarters)
Description
A circulated 1964 Washington Quarter. While appearing in a 'Gold Identification' context, this item is actually a silver specimen. It features the classic left-facing profile of George Washington by John Flanagan. This specific year is historically significant as it marks the final year the United States minted circulating quarters with 90% silver content before transitioning to copper-nickel clad compositions in 1965.
Key Features
1964 date marking the end of silver coinage; absence of mint mark; John Flanagan obverse design.
Color & Finish
Dull silver luster with significant surface patina and circulation-borne toning; greyish-white metallic hue.
Hallmarks & Stamps
No mint mark (Philadelphia Mint); Date: 1964; Inscriptions: LIBERTY, IN GOD WE TRUST.
Dimensions Estimate
24.3 mm diameter, 1.75 mm thickness
Gemstones & Inlays
None
Clasp & Closure
Not applicable (Reeded edge)
Chain & Links
Not applicable
Craftsmanship Details
Die-struck at high pressure; reeded edge for anti-counterfeiting; design remains one of the most recognized in numismatic history.
Authentication Indicators
Characteristic wear patterns for silver; standard 1964 typography; reeded edge appearance. Note: This is silver, not gold.
Origin & Maker
United States Mint (Philadelphia)
Era & Period
Mid-Century Modern / End of the Silver Era (1932-1964 design)
Age Estimate
Produced in 1964
Cultural Significance
Represents the transition of the U.S. monetary system away from precious metal standards to fiat-based base metal coinage.
Condition Notes
Circulated condition (VG-F grade estimate); visible surface scratches, flattening of high hair details, and significant contact marks.
Value Estimate
Primarily determined by silver melt value (approx. $4.00 - $5.50 depending on spot price); negligible numismatic premium in this grade.
Care & Maintenance
Do not clean or polish numismatic items; store in PVC-free flips or capsules to prevent environmental oxidation.
Similar Items
1965 Clad Quarter (confusable but weighs less at 5.67g), 1964-D Quarter (Denver mint), silver proof versions.
Interesting Facts
The 1964 quarter was minted in massive quantities (over 500 million in Philly alone) to combat a coin shortage caused by silver hoarding.