In the vast ocean of American coinage, the 1939 Washington quarter stands out as a fascinating piece of history and a potentially valuable treasure. This comprehensive guide will explore the intricate details of this coin, its historical context, and its worth in today's collector's market.
Historical Context: America on the Brink of Change
The year 1939 was a pivotal moment in American and world history. As the last echoes of the Great Depression faded, the world stood on the precipice of global conflict. Let's set the stage:
- The New York World's Fair opened, showcasing "The World of Tomorrow"
- "Gone with the Wind" and "The Wizard of Oz" premiered in theaters
- World War II began in Europe with Germany's invasion of Poland
- Franklin D. Roosevelt was serving his second term as President
Amidst this backdrop, the U.S. Mint continued to produce coinage that would circulate through one of the most transformative periods in American history.
The 1939 Quarter: Technical Specifications
Before delving into value, let's examine the physical characteristics of the 1939 quarter:
- Designer: John Flanagan
- Composition: 90% silver, 10% copper
- Weight: 6.25 grams
- Diameter: 24.3 mm
- Edge: Reeded
- Obverse: Portrait of George Washington
- Reverse: Eagle with outstretched wings
Mintage Figures and Mint Marks
The 1939 quarter was minted at three locations, each producing a different quantity:
- Philadelphia (No Mint Mark): 33,540,000
- Denver (D): 7,092,000
- San Francisco (S): 2,628,000
Additionally, 8,795 proof coins were struck at the Philadelphia Mint.
Factors Influencing Value
Several key factors determine the worth of a 1939 quarter:
- Mint Mark: Generally, S-mint coins are the most valuable, followed by D-mint, then Philadelphia.
- Condition: Graded on a scale from Poor (P-1) to Perfect Mint State (MS-70).
- Strike Quality: Well-struck coins with sharp details command higher prices.
- Luster: Original mint luster significantly enhances value.
- Toning: Natural, attractive toning can increase desirability.
- Rarity: Certain errors or varieties are highly sought after.
Comprehensive Value Chart
Here's a detailed breakdown of 1939 quarter values based on mint mark and condition:
| Mint Mark | Good (G-4) | Fine (F-12) | Extremely Fine (EF-40) | Uncirculated (MS-60) | Gem Uncirculated (MS-65) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| No Mark (P) | $5.50 | $7 | $10 | $25 | $125 |
| D | $6 | $9 | $20 | $50 | $250 |
| S | $7 | $15 | $40 | $110 | $400 |
| Proof | N/A | N/A | N/A | $300 | $600 |
Note: These values are approximate and subject to market fluctuations. Exceptional specimens may command significantly higher prices.
Rarity and Notable Varieties
While 1939 quarters are generally common, certain varieties are highly prized:
- 1939 Doubled Die Obverse: Extremely rare, with doubling visible on the date and lettering.
- 1939-S Repunched Mint Mark: Shows clear evidence of the S being punched twice.
- 1939 Proof with Cameo Contrast: Proofs with strong contrast between frosted devices and mirrored fields.
The Silver Factor
As 90% silver coins, 1939 quarters have intrinsic value based on their metal content:
- Silver weight: 0.18084 troy ounces
- At current silver prices ($24/oz as of 2023), melt value: approximately $4.34
However, the numismatic value almost always exceeds the melt value for these coins.
Collecting Strategies
For those interested in adding 1939 quarters to their collection:
- Focus on Quality: Higher grade coins often appreciate more over time.
- Look for Original Surfaces: Avoid cleaned or altered coins.
- Consider Type Set Collecting: A 1939 quarter makes an excellent addition to a Washington quarter type set.
- Hunt for Varieties: Researching and identifying rare varieties can be both rewarding and potentially profitable.
Preservation Tips
To maintain the value of your 1939 quarters:
- Handle coins by their edges, using cotton gloves if possible.
- Store in non-PVC holders or albums in a climate-controlled environment.
- Avoid cleaning coins yourself; improper cleaning can severely damage value.
- Consider professional conservation for valuable specimens.
Historical Significance in Numismatics
The 1939 quarter holds a special place in American numismatic history:
- It represents the early years of the Washington quarter series, which began in 1932.
- The coin's 90% silver composition would continue until 1964, marking the end of an era in U.S. coinage.
- Its production coincided with advancements in minting technology, resulting in generally well-struck coins.
Expert Insights
According to John Feigenbaum, publisher of the Coin Dealer Newsletter:
"The 1939 quarter, especially in high grades, represents an excellent value for collectors. While not as rare as some earlier dates, top-grade specimens can be quite scarce and are often undervalued in the current market."
Recent Auction Results
To give a sense of current market trends, here are some recent notable sales:
- A 1939-S quarter graded MS-67+ by PCGS sold for $18,000 in a 2022 Heritage auction.
- A 1939 Proof quarter graded PR-68 by NGC realized $4,800 in a 2021 Stack's Bowers sale.
- A 1939-D quarter in MS-67 condition achieved $3,120 in a 2023 online auction.
The Future of 1939 Quarter Collecting
As we look ahead, several factors may influence the collectibility and value of 1939 quarters:
- Increasing interest in historical coins from the pre-WWII era
- Growing scarcity of high-grade specimens as they're locked away in collections
- Potential for new varieties to be discovered through advanced numismatic research
Conclusion: More Than Just Pocket Change
The 1939 Washington quarter is far more than just 25 cents of silver. It's a tangible piece of American history, a testament to the craftsmanship of the U.S. Mint, and a potentially valuable numismatic treasure. Whether you're a seasoned collector or just beginning your journey into coin collecting, the 1939 quarter offers something special.
From its historical context at the cusp of World War II to its potential for significant value in high grades, this coin encapsulates much of what makes numismatics such a fascinating pursuit. As you examine your own 1939 quarters or consider adding them to your collection, remember that each coin tells a story—of the nation, of the era, and of the long journey from mint to your hands.
In the end, the true value of a 1939 quarter lies not just in its silver content or grade, but in the connection it provides to our shared past and the joy it brings to those who appreciate its history and artistry. Whether you're holding a well-worn example or a gem uncirculated specimen, you're holding a small but significant piece of America's numismatic legacy.
