1938 (S) Washington Quarter
Strike Type
Coin Details
Value Estimates
Values as of May 2026 — estimates reflect typical grades (G-4 through MS-63). Coins in lower or exceptional grades may fall outside this range.
Auction Record
$5,170 MS67+ 10-29-2015 Heritage Auctions
Description
The 1938 (S) Washington Quarter is a quarter produced at the San Francisco Mint as part of the Washington Silver Quarters 1932-1964 series. With a mintage of 2.8 million, this is a scarce issue — the lower-mintage of the two mint variants. The obverse features George Washington facing left, based on a 1786 bust by Jean-Antoine Houdon and the reverse displays an eagle perched on a bundle of arrows with olive branches below. The 1938-S is a low-mintage semi-key issue. Struck at the San Francisco Mint, established during the California Gold Rush and now primarily producing proof and collector coins. Estimated market value ranges from $19 to $205 depending on grade and condition. Struck in 90% silver, 10% copper, weighing 6.3 grams, 24.3 mm in diameter, with a reeded edge. Cataloged as PCGS #5807.
Rarity Notes
Semi-key date with a mintage of 2,832,000 pieces. Scarcer than most issues in the series and particularly challenging to find in higher uncirculated grades.
Cross References
PCGS #5807; NGC #15807
