Gold-Plated/Gilded U.S. Washington Quarter
Numismatic Coin (Modified) · Yellow Gold plating
Purity: Gilded/Plated (Likely 24K layer over 90% silver or copper-nickel)
Type
Numismatic Coin (Modified)
Purity
Gilded/Plated (Likely 24K layer over 90% silver or copper-nickel)
Gold Type
Yellow Gold plating
Weight
5.67 grams (if post-1964) or 6.25 grams (if pre-1965 silver base)
Description
A United States Washington Quarter that has been aftermarket treated with a thin layer of gold plating. This item features the classic reverse design with a spreading eagle perched on a bundle of arrows above two olive branches. While visually striking, the gold is decorative and not original to the minting process.
Key Features
Washington Quarter reverse motif; aftermarket gold gilding; reeded edge
Color & Finish
Vibrant yellow gold hue; satin to semi-reflective surface with visible circulation wear
Hallmarks & Stamps
No purity hallmarks; standard U.S. Mint 'QUARTER DOLLAR' and 'UNITED STATES OF AMERICA' inscriptions
Dimensions Estimate
Diameter of 24.26 mm with a thickness of 1.75 mm
Gemstones & Inlays
None
Clasp & Closure
Reeded edge finishing (standard for U.S. quarters)
Chain & Links
N/A
Craftsmanship Details
Die-struck base coin with a secondary chemical or electroplated finish; engraving shows moderate flattening from circulation.
Authentication Indicators
Color is too yellow for silver or clad; lack of hallmark indicates decorative plating; weight/magnetic tests would confirm base metal
Origin & Maker
United States Mint (Plating applied by a third-party aftermarket)
Era & Period
Contemporary/Modern (Post-1932 design)
Age Estimate
Post-1932; specific year depends on the obverse (front) of the coin
Cultural Significance
Represents the intersection of mass-produced currency and hobbyist collectibles; often used in jewelry or as 'lucky' tokens.
Condition Notes
Very Good to Fine (VG-F) base coin condition; visible wear on the eagle's breast and wing tips; plating appears intact but thin
Value Estimate
Primarily face value ($0.25) or silver melt weight (if 1964 or older); the gold plating adds negligible intrinsic value (pennies' worth of gold).
Care & Maintenance
Avoid acidic cleaners; do not use abrasive polishing cloths as they will remove the thin gold layer; store in a PVC-free coin flip.
Similar Items
24K Gold Plated Statehood Quarters; Platinum plated quarters; 1932-1964 90% Silver Quarters
Interesting Facts
Gold-plated quarters were frequently sold in 'tribute' sets or as novelty items through television advertisements and mail-order catalogs in the late 20th century.