1961 Proof Washington Quarter
Strike Type
Coin Details
Value Estimates
Values as of May 2026 — estimates reflect typical grades (G-4 through MS-67). Coins in lower or exceptional grades may fall outside this range.
Auction Record
$798 PR70 06-16-2018 eBay
Description
This 1961 proof Washington quarter was struck at the Philadelphia Mint as part of the annual proof set program that resumed in 1950 after an eight-year hiatus during and after World War II. Proof coins were struck using specially polished dies and planchets, with each coin receiving multiple strikes to ensure complete design detail. The resulting coins exhibit deep mirror fields contrasted with frosted design elements on the finest examples, a characteristic known as "cameo" contrast. The obverse presents John Flanagan's portrait of Washington based on Houdon's 1785 bust, rendered in exceptional relief and detail. The reverse displays a heraldic eagle with fully defined feathers and sharp lettering. Composed of 90% silver and 10% copper, weighing 6.25 grams with a 24.3mm diameter and reeded edge.
Rarity Notes
Proof mintage of 3,028,244. Readily available in most proof grades. Deep cameo examples with strong contrast between frosted devices and mirror fields command the strongest premiums.
Cross References
PCGS #5993; NGC #15993
External References
Error Varieties(12)
1961 Doubled Die Obverse WDDO-001
1961 Doubled Die Obverse WDDO-003
1961 Doubled Die Obverse WDDO-004
1961 Doubled Die Obverse WDDO-005
1961 Doubled Die Obverse WDDO-006
1961 Doubled Die Obverse WDDO-007
1961 Doubled Die Obverse WDDO-008
1961 Doubled Die Obverse WDDO-009
1961 Doubled Die Reverse WDDR-001
1961 Doubled Die Reverse WDDR-002
1961 Doubled Die Reverse WDDR-003
