1948 (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
$23,500 MS68 CAC 01-09-2013 Heritage Auctions
Description
The 1948 (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 16.0 million, this is a less common issue — the lowest mintage among 3 mint variants, representing only 23% 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. Minted during the post-war economic boom, the final era of silver circulating coinage in the United States before the Coinage Act of 1965. 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 $57 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 #5838.
Rarity Notes
Mintage of 15,960,000 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 #5838; NGC #15838
External References
Error Varieties(6)
1948-S Doubled Die Reverse DDR-001
1948-S Doubled Die Reverse DDR-002
1948-S Doubled Die Reverse DDR-003
1948-S Doubled Die Reverse WDDR-001
1948-S Repunched Mintmark RPM-001
