1942 (S) Washington Quarter
Strike Type
Coin Details
Value Estimates
Values as of May 2026, from published price guides and, in some cases, recorded auction sales. For most coins the range runs from a well-worn example (around G-4) to an uncirculated one, but individual coins can sell for more or less depending on grade, eye appeal and demand. Compare recent sales of similar coins for a closer estimate.
Auction Record
- Price realized
- $18,975
- Sold
- Grade
- MS68
- Auction house
- Superior Galleries
Description
The 1942 (S) Washington Quarter was struck at the San Francisco Mint as a quarter in the Washington Silver Quarters 1932-1964 series. The San Francisco Mint struck 19,384,000 quarters dated 1942. 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. First full year of the war, with quarters struck at all three mints. Some 1942-D coins show weak mint marks. Coined at the San Francisco Mint, which transitioned from Gold Rush-era production to its modern role producing proof and collector issues. Estimated market value ranges from $19 to $197 depending on grade and condition. Struck in 90% silver, 10% copper, weighing 6.25 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 Doubled Die Reverse VDDR-003
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
Other Strike Types in This Series
Collector Essentials
Tools and references for building and protecting your coin collection.
10x-20x Jeweler's Loupe
A must-have for examining coin details, mint marks, and surface quality
Red Book — Guide to U.S. Coins
The essential annual reference for U.S. coin values, history, and mintages
Coin Albums & Storage
Archival-quality albums and holders to protect and display your collection
USB Digital Microscope
Capture detailed images for documentation and community submissions
As an Amazon Associate, NumisDex earns from qualifying purchases.