1944 (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
$16,100 MS68 CAC 03-31-2011 Stack's Bowers
Description
The 1944 (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 12.6 million, this is a less common issue — the lowest mintage among 3 mint variants, representing only 10% of total 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. Produced during World War II, when the Mint altered coin compositions to conserve strategic metals for the war effort. 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 $49 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 #5826.
Rarity Notes
Mintage of 12,560,000 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 #5826; NGC #15826
External References
Error Varieties(11)
1944-S Doubled Die Obverse DDO-001
1944-S Doubled Die Obverse DDO-002
1944-S Doubled Die Obverse DDO-003
1944-S Doubled Die Obverse DDO-004
1944-S Doubled Die Obverse DDO-005
1944-S Doubled Die Obverse DDO-006
1944-S Doubled Die Obverse WDDO-001
1944-S Doubled Die Obverse WDDO-002
1944-S Doubled Die Reverse DDR-001
1944-S Doubled Die Reverse WDDR-001
