United States Washington Quarter (Cupronickel Clad Copper)
Coin (Numismatic/Currency) · None. The item exhibits a silvery-grey metallic appearance typical of nickel-based alloys, not gold.
Purity: None. This item is non-gold (0% gold content). It is a cupronickel-clad copper coin composed of 75% copper and 25% nickel coating over a pure copper core.
Type
Coin (Numismatic/Currency)
Purity
None. This item is non-gold (0% gold content). It is a cupronickel-clad copper coin composed of 75% copper and 25% nickel coating over a pure copper core.
Gold Type
None. The item exhibits a silvery-grey metallic appearance typical of nickel-based alloys, not gold.
Weight
5.67 grams (standard US mint specification for clad quarters)
Description
A circulated US Washington Quarter reverse side showing the bald eagle perched on a bundle of arrows above olive branches. This is common legal tender currency.
Key Features
Eagle reverse design used until 1998; 'D' mint mark; cupronickel cladding visible on the rim.
Color & Finish
Dull silvery-grey with significant circulation patina and surface scratching. Matte finish from heavy wear.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Reverse features: 'UNITED STATES OF AMERICA', 'E PLURIBUS UNUM', 'QUARTER DOLLAR', and a 'D' mint mark indicating Denver.
Dimensions Estimate
24.26 mm diameter, 1.75 mm thickness
Gemstones & Inlays
None
Clasp & Closure
Reeded edge (standard coin edge finishing)
Chain & Links
Not applicable
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-struck die design. Low relief due to extensive circulation wear.
Authentication Indicators
The color, wear patterns, and visible graining are consistent with a standard base-metal US quarter. It lacks the yellow luster or high density of gold.
Origin & Maker
United States Mint, Denver facility ('D' mint mark)
Era & Period
Modern Era (Post-1964 coinage standards)
Age Estimate
Post-1964; the specific date is on the obverse (not shown), but the 'D' and clad composition suggest a common 1965-present circulation piece.
Cultural Significance
A staple of American commerce and the most widely used denomination for vending and transit for decades.
Condition Notes
Circulated (G-VG grade). Significant flattening of eagle feathers, surface dings, and heavy wear on the lettering.
Value Estimate
Face value: $0.25 USD. Melt value is approximately $0.05 USD based on current copper/nickel prices.
Care & Maintenance
No special care required as it is base metal; cleaning numismatic items is generally discouraged for collectors.
Similar Items
1932-1964 Silver Washington Quarters (which contain actual precious metal) or gold-plated 'novelty' quarters often sold in sets.
Interesting Facts
Quarters transitioned from 90% silver to this copper-nickel clad composition in 1965 due to rising silver prices.