1942 (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
$18,975 MS68 01-06-2004 Superior Galleries
Description
The 1942 (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 19.4 million, this is a less common issue — ranked 2nd of 3 mint variants by mintage, with 14% of production. 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. Final pre-war year at three mints. Some 1942-D coins show weak mint marks. 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 $197 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 #5819.
Rarity Notes
Mintage of 19,384,000 pieces. Common in circulated grades. Uncirculated examples are available but high-grade gems are scarcer due to bag marks and handling during the silver era.
Cross References
PCGS #5819; NGC #15819
External References
Error Varieties(13)
1942-S Doubled Die Obverse DDO-001
1942-S Doubled Die Reverse DDR-001
1942-S Doubled Die Reverse DDR-002
1942-S Repunched Mintmark RPM-001
1942-S Repunched Mintmark RPM-002
1942-S Repunched Mintmark RPM-003
1942-S Repunched Mintmark RPM-004
1942-S Repunched Mintmark RPM-005
1942-S Repunched Mintmark RPM-006
1942-S Repunched Mintmark RPM-007
1942-S Repunched Mintmark RPM-008
1942-S Repunched Mintmark RPM-009
