1942-S Repunched Mintmark RPM-004

Description

Known as the "Trumpet Tail" variety and cross-referenced as FS-501, the 1942-S Washington quarter RPM-004 is among the most recognized San Francisco Mint repunched mintmarks in the series. The MMS-002 (Trumpet Tail) designation refers to the distinctive flared appearance of the S mintmark, while the Cherrypickers' FS-501 listing confirms its significance to mainstream variety collectors. VarietyVista records the mintmark as S/S South under die markers UVC-0281 and DMR-009, with three die stages documented. Stage A is listed as early die state but remains unconfirmed. Stage B shows both the reverse and obverse at mid-die state. By Stage C, late die state is confirmed by a die crack descending the eagle's right wing and a die crack along the bust line between the designer's initials and the ribbon. The Trumpet Tail nickname derives from the way the secondary mintmark impression creates a flared extension at the base of the S, giving it the appearance of a trumpet's bell. Wartime San Francisco quarter production generated many mintmark varieties, but the FS-501 listing elevates this piece above most competitors in desirability.

Die Markers

• UVC-0281
• DMR-009
• Stage A:
• EDS (unconfirmed)
• Stage B:
• Reverse and Obverse are MDS
• Stage C:
• Die down eagle's Right wing – LDS
• Die crack along bust line between designer's initials and ribbon – LDS

Attribution History

• Discovered by Unknown
• FS-501
• Expert attribution by VarietyVista

External References