The Washington quarters, first introduced in 1932, are among the most collectible coins, especially those minted in the 1930s. Consequently, the value of a 1934 quarter is notably higher compared to those produced in subsequent years.
Despite the ongoing production of these coins by the US Mint, older specimens remain highly prized by collectors. The inclusion of silver in the early sets further enhances their appeal as a valuable investment.
Table of Contents
- Value Chart for 1934 quarter
- Historical Background of the 1934 Quarters
- Types Of 1934 Quarters
- Design of the 1934 Quarter
- 1934 Quarter Grading Guide
- 1934 Quarter Value Guides
- Rare 1934 Quarter Error List
- Where to Sell Your 1934 Quarter?
- What to look for in the 1934 Quarter?
- Which 1934 Quarter is worth a lot of money?
- What is the priciest quarter with Washington on the obverse?
- FAQs On The 1934 Quarter Value
- Final Thoughts
Value Chart for 1934 quarter
| Condition | 1934 Quarter Light Motto | 1934 Quarter Heavy Motto | 1934 Quarter Medium Motto | 1934 Quarter Doubled Die | 1934 D Quarter |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Good | $9.41 | $9.41 | $9.41 | $59 | $9.41 |
| Very good | $10.81 | $10.81 | $10.81 | $70 | $10.81 |
| Fine | $11.41 | $11.41 | $11.41 | $98 | $11.41 |
| Very fine | $12 | $12 | $12 | $175 | $16 |
| Extra fine | $14 | $14 | $14 | $264 | $30 |
| AU | $30 | $19 | $30 | $676 | $98 |
| MS 60 | $70 | $37 | $70 | $1,163 | $175 |
| MS 65 | $235 | $195 | $235 | $3,804 | $494 |
Historical Background of the 1934 Quarters
The 1934 quarters were initially part of a commemorative series celebrating George Washington’s 200th birth anniversary. Preparations began in 1930 to ensure the coins were ready for the 1932 release.
The design was based on a sculpture by French neoclassical artist Jean-Antoine Houdon. The reverse side was intended to feature American symbols and necessary inscriptions, with the design left to the artist’s creativity.
Although Laura Gardin Fraser’s design won the competition, the then-Treasury Secretary chose John Flanagan’s design instead. Despite this controversy, Flanagan’s design has endured on quarters to this day.
Due to the popularity of these coins, the initial plan for a one-time commemorative issue was revised, and minting resumed in 1934 after a hiatus in 1933.
Types Of 1934 Quarters
| Location | Year | Minted |
|---|---|---|
| Philadelphia | 1934 quarters | 31,912,052 |
| Denver | 1934 D quarters | 3,527,200 |
| Total | – | 35,439,252 |
Design of the 1934 Quarter
John Flanagan, the engraver behind the Washington quarter, saw his design minted again in 1934 after a year’s pause. This year, two mints produced coins with three variations of the motto “IN GOD WE TRUST”: Medium Motto, Heavy Motto, and Light Motto (exclusive to the Philadelphia mint).
Obverse Design of 1934 Quarter
The obverse side of the 1934 quarter features a profile of George Washington, surrounded by:
- LIBERTY at the top
- 1934 (the date) at the bottom
- IN GOD WE TRUST on the left, in Light, Medium, or Heavy Motto
- The initials JF at the base of Washington’s neck
Reverse Design of 1934 Quarter
The reverse side is intricate, showcasing:
- A centrally positioned bald eagle
- Two olive branches and arrows pointing left
- The inscriptions QUARTER DOLLAR, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, and E PLURIBUS UNUM
- The mint mark D or a blank space for Philadelphia mint coins
This detailed design and the historical context make the 1934 quarter a fascinating and valuable piece for collectors.
Technical Specifications of 1934 Quarter
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Face Value | Twenty-five cents ($0.25) |
| Compound | Silver coin with 10 percent copper |
| Coin Weight | 0.20094 troy ounces/6.25 g |
| Silver Weight | 0.1808 troy ounces/5.623 g |
| Coin Diameter | 0.95669 inches/24.3 mm |
| Edge | 119 reeds |
| Coin Thickness | 0.06870 inches/1.75 mm |
| Shape | Round |
1934 Quarter Grading Guide
When evaluating 1934 quarters, collectors prioritize the coin’s condition. For these specific quarters, the appearance of the Motto is crucial, as the three variations significantly influence the coin’s value.
High-quality quarters in excellent condition can fetch thousands of dollars, so professional appraisal is recommended. Proper packaging and documentation are essential for achieving top auction prices.
| Sheldon Scale | Grade |
|---|---|
| 1 | Basal State-1 |
| 2 | Fair |
| 3 | Very Fair |
| 4, 5, 6 | Good |
| 7, 8, 10 | Very Good |
| 12, 15 | Fine |
| 20, 30 | Very Fine |
| 40 | Extremely Fine |
| 50 | About Uncirculated |
| 60 | Mint State |
| 65 | Mint State |
| 70 | Mint State |
Please refer to our Washington quarter grading guide to accurately determine your coin’s value.
1934 Quarter Value Guides
In 1934, the US Mint produced 35,439,252 quarters. These were minted in two types: those with the “D” mint mark and those without. The different Motto appearances add an interesting aspect to this year’s coins. Let’s explore their values.
1934 Washington quarter Value
The Philadelphia mint produced 31,912,052 quarters in 1934, nearly ten times more than the Denver mint. These coins can be categorized into three types based on the Motto appearance.
Light Motto
The Light Motto quarters are identifiable by their blurry, indistinct letters. Circulated coins range from $5.75 to $25, while uncirculated pieces can fetch $35 to $400. Exceptionally graded MS 67 coins are more valuable, priced between $1,400 and $2,650. Notably, MS 67+ graded coins sold for $8,813 and $8,519 in 2014.
Medium Motto
Circulated Medium Motto quarters, with their clear and well-struck letters, are valued at $5.75 to $13. Mint state coins range from $32 (MS 60) to $750 (MS 67). Near-perfect MS 68 coins are valued between $6,000 and $11,500. For example, an MS 67+ coin sold for $1,763 in 2014, while an MS 68 coin fetched $15,275 in 2013.
Heavy Motto
Heavy Motto quarters feature thicker, well-defined letters. Circulated coins are valued between $5 and $29, while uncirculated coins are more valuable. MS 60 to MS 66 coins range from $40 to $550. MS 67 coins are priced between $2,250 and $3,000, with one selling for $3,760 in 2015. The highest auction price for an MS 67+ Heavy Motto quarter was $9,400 in 2022.
1934 D Washington Quarter Value
The Denver mint produced 3,527,200 quarters in 1934, available in two Motto variations with different values.
Medium Motto
Circulated Medium Motto quarters range from $5 to $132. Mint state coins are significantly more valuable, ranging from $150 (MS 60) to $950 (MS 66). MS 67 coins are estimated at $5,500 to $7,000, but one sold for $21,850 in 2007.
Heavy Motto
Circulated Heavy Motto quarters from Denver are valued between $6 and $144. Mint state coins start at $160, with higher grades fetching more:
- MS 61: $175 to $210
- MS 62: $210 to $252
- MS 63: $250 to $300
- MS 64: $265 to $318
- MS 65: $500 to $600
- MS 66: $850 to $1,020
- MS 67: $8,500 to $10,000
The highest auction price for a 1934 D MS 67 Heavy Motto quarter (CAC) was $15,275 in 2013.
Rare 1934 Quarter Error List
Many coin series feature various errors, and the 1934 Washington quarters are no exception. Among these, one error stands out for its rarity and value: coins with doubling on the Motto and lettering.
Let’s go into the details.
1934 Quarter DDO Error
The most notable error in the 1934 quarters is the Double Die Obverse (DDO). This error occurs when the die used to strike the coin is doubled, resulting in a noticeable doubling effect on the coin’s obverse. The intensity of the doubling varies, influenced by the pressure during minting and the degree of die misalignment.
These factors significantly impact the coin’s value. Circulated DDO quarters typically range from $25 to $528, while those in mint condition command higher prices:
- MS 60: $660 to $792
- MS 61: $700 to $840
- MS 62: $760 to $912
- MS 63: $900 to $1,080
- MS 64: $1,400 to $2,000
- MS 65: $2,150 to $3,050
- MS 66: $6,000 to $7,200
Despite these estimates, auction records can exceed expectations. For instance, an MS 65 DDO quarter sold for $10,350 in 2005.
1934 Quarter Off-center Error
Off-center errors occur when the coin’s planchet moves during minting, resulting in a misaligned strike. These imperfect yet highly collectible coins are valued based on the extent of the design’s misalignment.
1934 Quarter Clashed dies Error
Clashed die errors happen when the obverse and reverse dies come into contact without a planchet in between, leaving a ghostly impression on the coin’s surface. While intriguing, these errors typically have modest values.
Quarter struck on a nickel planchet
A rare error involves 1934 quarters struck on a nickel planchet, primarily from the Denver mint. These coins weigh 0.176 ounces (5 grams) instead of the standard 0.2 troy ounces (6.25 grams) for quarters.
Additionally, they lack a complete design due to the smaller diameter of the nickel planchet (0.835 inches or 21.21 mm) compared to the quarter’s standard (0.957 inches or 24.3 mm).
Where to Sell Your 1934 Quarter?
Knowing the value of your 1934 quarters is just the first step. Selling them online can be convenient, and several platforms offer this service. For a comprehensive list of the best places to sell coins online, including their pros and cons, check out our guide.
What to look for in the 1934 Quarter?
When evaluating a 1934 quarter, several key factors can significantly impact its value:
- Motto Variations: The 1934 quarters come in three Motto variations—Light, Medium, and Heavy. The clarity and style of the Motto can greatly influence the coin’s worth.
- Light Motto: Look for blurry, indistinct letters.
- Medium Motto: Check for clear, well-struck letters.
- Heavy Motto: Identify thicker, well-defined letters.
- Mint Marks: Determine if the coin has a “D” mint mark (Denver) or no mint mark (Philadelphia). Coins from Denver are generally rarer.
- Condition: The coin’s grade is crucial. Higher-grade coins (MS 60 and above) are significantly more valuable. Look for coins with minimal wear and clear details.
- Errors: Error coins, such as those with Double Die Obverse (DDO), off-center strikes, clashed dies, or those struck on a nickel planchet, are highly sought after. These errors can dramatically increase a coin’s value.
- Historical Context: Understanding the historical significance of the 1934 quarter, including its design and production background, can add to its collectible appeal.
Which 1934 Quarter is worth a lot of money?
- 1934 D MS 67 Medium Motto: $21,850 (2007)
- 1934 MS 68 Medium Motto: $15,275 (2013)
- 1934 D MS 67 CAC Heavy Motto: $15,275 (2013)
- 1934 D MS 67 Small D Heavy Motto: $11,400 (2021)
- 1934 MS 65 DDO: $10,350 (2005)
- 1934 MS 67+ Heavy Motto: $9,400 (2022)
- 1934 MS 67+ Light Motto: $8,813 (2014)
- 1934 MS 67+ Light Motto: $8,519 (2014)
- 1934 MS 66+ DDO: $8,400 (2018)
- 1934 MS 67 Heavy Motto: $3,760 (2015)
- 1934 MS 67+ Medium Motto: $1,763 (2014)
What is the priciest quarter with Washington on the obverse?
The most expensive quarter in the series is the 1932 D MS 66 silver quarter, which sold for $143,750 in 2008. Other notable high-value quarters include:
- 1932 MS 66 silver quarter (San Francisco): $45,500 (2020)
- 1948 MS 68+ silver quarter (Philadelphia): $43,200 (2021)
- 1950 PR 68 silver proof: $31,200 (2022)
- 1966 MS 68+ regular clad coin: $21,000 (2023)
- 1974 S PR 70 clad proof: $10,925 (2009)
FAQs On The 1934 Quarter Value
What makes a 1934 quarter rare?
The rarity of a 1934 quarter depends on its type and condition. With five variations issued by two mints, some are rarer than others. Coins in impeccable condition are particularly hard to find due to high demand over the years.
How much is the 1934 quarter from Philadelphia worth?
The 1934 Washington quarters from Philadelphia come in three varieties based on the Motto appearance. Circulated Light Motto quarters range from $5.75 to $25, while uncirculated ones are valued between $35 and $2,200. Heavy Motto quarters in circulation are worth $5 to $30, with mint state coins ranging from $37 to $3,000. Medium Motto quarters are the most valuable, with circulated coins priced at $6 to $13 and MS 68 graded coins estimated at $6,000 to $7,800.
Final Thoughts
The 1934 Washington quarter is a fascinating piece of numismatic history, offering collectors a blend of historical significance, design intricacies, and potential for high value.
Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a newcomer, understanding the key features and variations of these quarters can help you make informed decisions and appreciate the true worth of your quarter collection.
Always consider professional grading and stay informed about market trends to maximize your investment.