The 1995 Washington quarter is an interesting coin, not only for its historical significance but also for its variety in production and value. This guide will take you through what the 1995 Washington quarter is made of, its key varieties, and how much these coins could be worth today.
If you’re a collector or someone who simply has one of these quarters lying around, this article will give you all the information you need to understand its value.
What is the 1995 Washington Quarter Made Of?
The standard 1995 Washington quarter is composed of a pure copper core covered with a layer of nickel. Specifically, the coin consists of 75% copper and 25% nickel. This gives it its characteristic appearance and durability.
However, apart from the standard version, there is also a special variety made for collectors, composed of 90% silver and 10% nickel. These silver versions are not meant for general circulation but are highly sought after by numismatists and collectors.
A Brief History of the Washington Quarter
The Washington quarter was first introduced in 1932 to commemorate the 200th birthday of George Washington, the first President of the United States. The quarter features a profile of Washington on the obverse side, designed by John Flanagan, a well-known sculptor of the time. The design has remained largely unchanged since its introduction, giving it a timeless appeal.
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Specifications of the 1995 Washington Quarter
Here are the basic specifications of the 1995 Washington quarter:
- Face Value: 25 cents
- Diameter: 24.3 mm
- Weight: 5.67 grams
- Composition: 75% copper, 25% nickel (standard); 90% silver, 10% nickel (collector’s edition)
- Edge: Reeded
The obverse side features George Washington, with inscriptions like “LIBERTY,” “IN GOD WE TRUST,” and the year “1995.” The reverse side shows a bald eagle clutching arrows and olive branches, symbolizing both strength and peace. The inscriptions on the reverse include “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA,” “E PLURIBUS UNUM,” and “QUARTER DOLLAR.”
1995 Washington Quarter Varieties
There are several different varieties of the 1995 Washington quarter, and they can be distinguished based on where they were minted and their mint marks. The main varieties are:
1. 1995-D Washington Quarter
- Mint Mark: D (Denver)
- Produced: 1,103,216,000
- Price Range: 25 cents to $14.25 (or more)
This is the most common version, produced at the Denver Mint. In circulated condition, it’s worth face value, but uncirculated coins in good condition can sell for significantly more.
2. 1995-P Washington Quarter
- Mint Mark: P (Philadelphia) or no mint mark
- Produced: 1,004,336,000
- Price Range: 25 cents to $15
Similar to the Denver-minted coin, this variety was produced at the Philadelphia Mint. It is also widely circulated, but coins in higher grades can fetch better prices.
3. 1995-S Washington Quarter (Proof)
- Mint Mark: S (San Francisco)
- Produced: 2,010,384
- Price Range: 25 cents to $11.50
The San Francisco Mint produced proof coins, which are higher-quality versions of regular coins, often collected for their aesthetic appeal. These are less common and can be more valuable, especially in higher grades.
4. 1995-S Washington Quarter (Silver Proof)
- Mint Mark: S (San Francisco)
- Produced: 838,953
- Price Range: 25 cents to $11
The silver proof variety has a much lower mintage, making it rarer. With only around 839,000 produced, these are prized by collectors and often command higher prices.
Common Errors and Their Value
With such a high number of 1995 Washington quarters produced, it’s no surprise that some error coins exist. Error coins are highly collectible because they are unique and often rare. Common types of errors include:
- Die Breaks: A crack in the die can cause a line to appear on the coin.
- Off-Center Strikes: The coin is struck off-center, leading to part of the design being missing.
- Clipped Planchet: A portion of the coin is missing due to an error in cutting the planchet.
Coins with these errors can be worth significantly more than regular 1995 quarters, especially if they are in good condition.
How Much is the 1995 Washington Quarter Worth Today?
The value of a 1995 Washington quarter can vary greatly depending on its condition, mint mark, and any errors it may have. Here’s a general guide to the value of different varieties and conditions:
| Coin Type | Condition | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| 1995-D | Circulated | 25 cents to $14.25 |
| 1995-D | Uncirculated MS-65 | $6 to $144 |
| 1995-P | Circulated | 25 cents to $15 |
| 1995-S (Proof) | Circulated | 25 cents to $11.50 |
| 1995-S (Silver Proof) | Uncirculated PR-69 | $7 to $34 |
Silver proof coins tend to have a higher intrinsic value due to their silver content. A standard 1995 quarter has a melt value of around $0.05, while the silver proof quarter can have a melt value of over $3.80.
Where to Buy or Sell a 1995 Washington Quarter
If you’re looking to buy or sell a 1995 Washington quarter, there are several options available. Online marketplaces like eBay and Amazon are popular places to trade coins. You can also visit specialized coin trading platforms like USA Coin Book or Golden Eagle Coin. For those who prefer face-to-face transactions, coin shops, antique stores, and auctions are good alternatives.
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Conclusion
The 1995 Washington quarter might be a common coin, but certain varieties and errors can make them valuable to collectors. Whether you have a standard version or a rare error coin, understanding the details and history of these quarters can help you determine their true worth.
FAQs
Is there anything special about the 1995 Washington quarter?
Yes, coins with a grade of MS-65 or higher are considered special due to their rarity in such pristine condition.
How many 1995-D Washington quarters were produced?
Over 1.1 billion 1995-D quarters were minted at the Denver Mint.
What is the most valuable 1995 quarter error?
The most valuable errors are those that are both rare and in good condition, though there is no single “most valuable” error coin.
What is a rare year for a quarter?
Quarters minted between 1796 and 1899 are considered quite rare.
Ethan is a passionate rare coin collector with years of experience uncovering the stories and history behind unique coins. His insightful articles are a go-to for anyone curious about coin values or their fascinating backstories.