The Washington quarters hold a significant place in American numismatic history, being the second set of coins to feature a real person. Initially intended as a one-year commemorative coin to honor George Washington, their production has continued to this day.
Originally, these quarters were composed of 90% silver. However, due to the rising cost of silver in 1965, the composition was altered to a copper-nickel alloy. This change, combined with high mintage numbers and a general lack of interest from collectors in modern coins, results in the relatively low value of the 1994 quarter.
Table of Contents
- Value Chart for 1994 Quarter
- Historical Background of the 1994 Washington Quarters
- Types Of 1994 Washington Quarter
- Design of the 1994 Washington Quarter
- Technical Specifications Of The 1994 Washington Quarter
- 1994 Washington Quarter Grading Guide
- 1994 Washington Quarter Value Guides
- Rare 1994 Washington Quarter Error List
- Where to Sell Your 1994 Washington Quarter?
- What to look for in the 1994 Washington Quarter?
- Which 1994 Washington quarters are worth a lot of money?
- What are the priciest Washington Quarters?
- FAQs On 1994 Washington Quarter Value
- Final Thoughts
Value Chart for 1994 Quarter
| Condition | 1994 P Clad | 1994 D Clad | 1994 S Clad | 1994 S Silver |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MS 65 | $7 | $26 | NA | NA |
| PR 65 | NA | NA | $5 | $8 |
Historical Background of the 1994 Washington Quarters
The US Mint began producing quarters in 1796, featuring Lady Liberty on the obverse and the American bald eagle on the reverse. The design changed in 1932 to commemorate the 200th anniversary of George Washington’s birth, introducing the Washington quarter.
The process of redesigning the quarter began in 1924, with a competition to create a new design featuring Washington’s portrait on the obverse and a significant national symbol on the reverse. Sculptor Laura Gardin Fraser initially won the competition with her half-dollar design. However, Congress later decided to use the design for quarters, prompting a new competition.
Fraser won again, but the then-Treasury Secretary overruled the decision, opting for John Flanagan’s design instead. This design remained in use until 1998.
In 1965, the rising price of silver led to a change in the coin’s composition to a copper-nickel alloy, significantly reducing production costs.
Types Of 1994 Washington Quarter
| Location | Year | Minted |
|---|---|---|
| Philadelphia | 1994 P clad quarter | 825,600,000 |
| Denver | 1994 D clad quarter | 880,034,110 |
| San Francisco | 1994 S clad quarter (proof) | 2,484,594 |
| San Francisco | 1994 S silver quarter (proof) | 785,329 |
| Total | NA | 1,708,904,033 |
Design of the 1994 Washington Quarter
Over the years, many US Mint coins have undergone changes in both appearance and composition. The Washington quarters, however, maintained their original design from 1932 until 1998, despite a change in metal composition in 1965.
Obverse Design of 1994 Washington Quarter
The obverse of the 1994 Washington Quarter prominently features a bust of George Washington facing left. The design is simple yet dignified, capturing the essence of the former President. Above Washington’s head is the word “LIBERTY,” and below his profile, the minting year “1994” is inscribed.
The phrase “IN GOD WE TRUST” appears in front of his face. The mint mark, indicating the mint location (P, S, or D), is positioned to the right, near the bow of Washington’s ponytail.
Reverse Design of 1994 Washington Quarter
The reverse side showcases the American bald eagle with its wings spread wide, clutching a bundle of arrows in its talons, symbolizing war, and olive branches below, representing peace. This imagery balances the dual themes of war and peace.
Above the eagle’s wings is the motto “E PLURIBUS UNUM,” and the name of the country, “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA,” arcs along the top rim. The denomination “QUARTER DOLLAR” is inscribed at the bottom.
Technical Specifications Of The 1994 Washington Quarter
| 1994 Clad Quarter | 1994 Silver Quarter | |
| Face Value | $0.25 (25 cents) | $0.25 (25 cents) |
| Compound | Copper and nickel (3: 1) with a copper core | Silver (90%) and copper (10%) |
| Coin Diameter | 0.9551 inches (24.26 mm) | 0.9551 inches (24.26 mm) |
| Coin Thickness | 0.06889 inches (1.75 mm) | 0.06889 inches (1.75 mm) |
| Coin Weight | 0.20 ounces (5.67 g) | 0.22 ounces (6.25 g) |
| Coin Silver Weight | NA | 0.1808 troy ounces (5.1256 g) |
| Shape | Round | Round |
| Edge | Reeded | Reeded |
1994 Washington Quarter Grading Guide
The value of a 1994 Washington Quarter is influenced by several factors, including its appearance, condition, preservation, mint mark, market availability, and any minting errors.
Among these, the coin’s grade is the most critical factor. Professional evaluation is recommended to determine the precise grade and value of your 1994 quarter.
| 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 |
For a detailed understanding of your 1994 quarter’s grade, please refer to my Washington quarter grading guide. Accurate grading is essential to determine the exact value of your coin.
1994 Washington Quarter Value Guides
In 1994, the San Francisco Mint produced a modest 3,269,923 quarters out of a total mintage of 1,708,904,033. The remaining quarters were minted in nearly equal numbers by two other mints.
1994 P Quarter Value
The Philadelphia Mint struck 825,600,000 quarters in 1994, marked by the letter “P” on the obverse. Due to their high circulation, these quarters are abundant in the market, often valued at face value in circulated condition.
For mint state coins, the value varies with grade:
- MS 60 to MS 65: $1 to $7
- MS 66: $37 to $40
- MS 67: $290 to $620
The highest recorded auction price for a 1994 Washington quarter was $864 for an MS 63 graded coin in 2006.
1994 D Quarter Value
The Denver Mint produced the largest number of quarters in 1994, with a total of 880,034,110 coins, identifiable by the “D” mint mark. Circulated coins typically do not exceed $1 in value.
Mint state coins are priced as follows:
- MS 60 to MS 65: $1 to $26
- MS 66: $70 to $150
- MS 67: $750 to $1,250
An MS 67 graded quarter from Denver set an auction record at $1,500 on eBay in 2018.
1994 S Quarter Value (proof)
The San Francisco Mint produced two types of proof quarters in 1994, differing in composition. The cupronickel proof quarters had a relatively low mintage of 2,484,594 coins. Their values are:
- PR 67 S DCAM: $6
- PR 68 S DCAM: $10
- PR 69 S DCAM: $16
- PR 70 S DCAM: $35
The highest auction price for a cupronickel proof quarter was $308 for a PR 70 DCAM coin in 2004.
Additionally, the San Francisco Mint produced silver proof quarters with a mintage of 785,329 coins. Their values are:
- PR 67 S DCAM: $10
- PR 68 S DCAM: $11
- PR 69 S DCAM: $17
- PR 70 S DCAM: $48
The highest auction price for a silver proof quarter was $863 for a PR 70 DCAM coin in 2007.
Rare 1994 Washington Quarter Error List
Minting errors were more common in earlier periods, and these flawed coins often fetch high prices at auctions, regardless of the error’s size. This is especially true for rare coins, and the high mintage of 1994 quarters means more errors are likely.
1994 Washington Quarter Off-center Error
An off-center error occurs when the planchet shifts during minting, resulting in an incomplete design. Depending on the extent of the error, one side of the coin may be blank, while the design is partially visible. The value of 1994 quarter with off-center error can reach up to $30, depending on how much of the design is visible and if the date is recognizable.
1994 Washington Quarter Clipped Planchet Error
A clipped planchet error happens when a piece of the planchet is cut off during minting, giving the coin an irregular shape. These errors are easy to spot, and a 1994 quarter with this error can be worth around $20.
1994 Quarter Missing Clad Layer Error
The 1994 quarters are made with a copper core and a cupronickel layer. If the top layer is missing, the coin appears penny-colored. Depending on whether the missing layer is on the obverse or reverse, these coins can range from $60 to $220 in value.
1994 Quarter Double Strike Error
A double strike error occurs when the coin is struck twice by the minting press, resulting in overlapping images and a deformed appearance. This error is due to a delay in the automatic feeding of planchets. A 1994 quarter with a double strike error can be valued at about $140.
1994 Quarter Wrong Planchet Error
Occasionally, planchets intended for other denominations are mistakenly used, resulting in coins with incorrect thicknesses and diameters. For example, a 1994 quarter minted on a dime planchet can be worth up to $850.
Where to Sell Your 1994 Washington Quarter?
Knowing the value of your coins is just the first step. To sell them online, consider using reputable platforms. Here are some options, along with their pros and cons:
- eBay: Wide audience, but fees can be high.
- Heritage Auctions: Trusted for high-value coins, but may require consignment.
- Coin Shows: Direct interaction with buyers, but limited to event dates.
You can also read my comprehensive guide for selling coins online in 2024.
What to look for in the 1994 Washington Quarter?
When examining a 1994 quarter, there are several key aspects to consider that can significantly impact its value:
- Mint Mark: Check for the mint mark on the obverse side of the coin, near Washington’s ponytail. The mint mark can be “P” (Philadelphia), “D” (Denver), or “S” (San Francisco). Proof coins from San Francisco are particularly valuable.
- Condition: The coin’s condition is crucial. Look for coins with minimal wear and tear. Coins in mint state (MS) condition, especially those graded MS 65 or higher, are more valuable.
- Errors: Minting errors can increase a coin’s value. Look for off-center strikes, clipped planchets, missing clad layers, double strikes, or coins struck on the wrong planchet.
- Proof Coins: Proof coins, especially those with Deep Cameo (DCAM) effects, are more valuable. These coins have a mirror-like finish and are struck with special dies.
- Rarity: While 1994 quarters are not generally rare, specific high-grade coins or those with unique errors can be valuable.
Which 1994 Washington quarters are worth a lot of money?
Here are some of the 1994 quarters that are worth a lot of money in 2024:
- 1994 D MS 67 clad quarter: $1,500 (2018)
- 1994 P MS 63 clad quarter: $864 (2006)
- 1994 S PR 70 silver quarter with DCAM: $863 (2007)
- 1994 S PR 70 clad quarter with DCAM: $308 (2004)
What are the priciest Washington Quarters?
The most valuable Washington quarters are typically older silver coins. Notable examples include:
- 1932 D MS 66 quarter: $143,750 (2008)
- 1932 S MS 66 quarter: $45,500 (2020)
- 1949 D MS 68 coin: $43,475 (2019)
For clad composition quarters, record prices include:
- 1966 MS 68+ quarter: $21,000 (2023)
- 1983 P MS 65 quarter: $15,862.50 (2014)
- 1970 D MS 69 quarter: $15,000 (2023)
FAQs On 1994 Washington Quarter Value
What makes a 1994 Washington quarter rare?
The 1994 quarters are part of a modern series with over 1.7 billion minted. They are not considered rare due to their high circulation, and many are still in everyday use.
How much are the 1994 Washington Quarter from Philadelphia worth?
Philadelphia-minted quarters from 1994 can be bought at face value in circulated condition. Mint state coins can be worth up to $600, depending on their condition.
Final Thoughts
The 1994 Washington quarter is a fascinating piece of numismatic history. While most of these coins are common and hold minimal value, certain factors like mint marks, condition, and errors can significantly enhance their worth.
Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a novice, understanding these nuances can help you identify valuable coins and make informed decisions. Always consider professional grading for an accurate assessment of your coin’s value.