United States Washington Quarter (Cupronickel Clad)
Coin (Circulating Numismatic) · None. The item is composed of an outer layer of 75% copper and 25% nickel clad to a pure copper core.
Purity: 0% Gold Content (Non-gold item). This is a cupronickel-clad copper coin, not a gold piece.
Type
Coin (Circulating Numismatic)
Purity
0% Gold Content (Non-gold item). This is a cupronickel-clad copper coin, not a gold piece.
Gold Type
None. The item is composed of an outer layer of 75% copper and 25% nickel clad to a pure copper core.
Weight
Standard 5.67 grams / 0.182 troy oz
Description
This is a standard circulation United States Washington Quarter. The reverse features the heraldic eagle with outspread wings, perched on a bundle of arrows with two olive branches below. Despite its silver appearance, this coin is a composition of base metals, produced as a cost-saving measure following the Coinage Act of 1965 which removed silver from circulating quarters.
Key Features
Eagle reverse design by John Flanagan; Denver 'D' mint mark; Cupronickel clad composition.
Color & Finish
Silver-toned matte grey with significant surface pitting, oxidation, and heavy circulation wear (patina).
Hallmarks & Stamps
Mint mark 'D' (Denver) located below the eagle; legends: 'UNITED STATES OF AMERICA', 'E PLURIBUS UNUM', 'QUARTER DOLLAR'.
Dimensions Estimate
Diameter: 24.26 mm (0.955 in); Thickness: 1.75 mm
Gemstones & Inlays
None
Clasp & Closure
Reeded edge (standard security feature for US coinage)
Chain & Links
N/A - Solid coin structure
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-struck using hardened steel dies; typical high-volume government production standards.
Authentication Indicators
Correct font styles and strike characteristics for US Mint; 'D' mint mark position is standard; visible copper 'sandwich' layer would be present on the edge confirms it is not silver.
Origin & Maker
United States Mint (Denver facility indicated by 'D' mark)
Era & Period
Modern Era (likely 1965 to late 20th century based on composition and design)
Age Estimate
Post-1964; likely minted between 1965 and 1998, as the date is not visible on the reverse.
Cultural Significance
A cornerstone of American commerce, representing the transition from precious metal coinage to fiat-based base metal currency in the mid-1960s.
Condition Notes
Very Good (VG) to Fine (F) grade. Significant surface wear, loss of feather detail on the eagle's breast, and heavy scratches/pitting consistent with decades of circulation.
Value Estimate
Face value: $0.25 USD. No gold value. Minimal collector value in this heavily circulated condition.
Care & Maintenance
Do not clean or polish if numismatic value is desired; store in a dry, PVC-free environment to prevent further corrosion.
Similar Items
1932-1964 90% Silver Quarters (valuable for silver content); 1976 Bicentennial Quarters (drummer boy reverse); State Series Quarters (post-1999).
Interesting Facts
The Washington Quarter was originally intended to be a one-year commemorative for 1932 to mark Washington's 200th birthday but became so popular it replaced the Standing Liberty design permanently.