1987 (S) Proof Washington Quarter

Coin Details

Auction Record

$236 PR70 11-25-2003 Heritage Auctions

Description

The 1987 (S) Proof Washington Quarter is a proof quarter struck at the San Francisco Mint, part of the Washington Clad and Silver Proof Quarters 1965-1998 series. The U.S. Mint produced 4.2 million examples, making this 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. Struck after the transition from silver to clad coinage, as the Mint adapted to modern production methods and record-breaking mintages. 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 San Francisco Mint, established during the California Gold Rush and now primarily producing proof and collector coins. Estimated market value is approximately $5. Struck in 75% copper, 25% nickel over a pure copper center, weighing 5.67 grams, 24.3 mm in diameter, with a reeded edge. Cataloged as PCGS #96023.