1956 Proof 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
$1,000 PR69 01-16-2023 eBay
Description
The 1956 Proof Washington Quarter is a proof quarter struck at the Philadelphia Mint, part of the Washington Silver Quarters 1932-1964 series. With a mintage of 669,384, this is an extremely rare issue — the lowest mintage among 3 mint variants, representing only less than 1% 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. As a proof issue, this coin was struck multiple times on specially prepared polished planchets using polished dies, producing mirror-like fields and frosted design elements prized by collectors. Struck at the original U.S. Mint facility, in continuous operation since 1792. Estimated market value is approximately $36. Struck in 90% silver, 10% copper, weighing 6.3 grams, 24.3 mm in diameter, with a reeded edge. Cataloged as PCGS #5988.
Rarity Notes
Proof mintage of 669,384. Available in most proof grades though superb gems (PR-67 and above) carry a premium.
Cross References
PCGS #5988; NGC #15988
External References
Error Varieties(12)
1956 Doubled Die Obverse WDDO-001
1956 Doubled Die Obverse WDDO-002
1956 Doubled Die Obverse WDDO-003
1956 Doubled Die Obverse WDDO-004
1956 Doubled Die Obverse WDDO-005
1956 Doubled Die Obverse WDDO-006
1956 Doubled Die Reverse DDR-003
1956 Doubled Die Reverse DDR-005
1956 Doubled Die Reverse DDR-006
1956 Doubled Die Reverse DDR-007
1956 Doubled Die Reverse DDR-010
