In the fascinating world of coin collecting, few pieces capture the imagination quite like the 1959 Washington quarter. This coin, minted over six decades ago, holds a special place in American numismatics. But what exactly is a 1959 quarter worth in today's market? Let's embark on an in-depth exploration of this captivating coin, uncovering its true value and the factors that make it a prized possession for collectors.
The Historical Significance of the 1959 Quarter
Before we delve into the specifics of value, it's crucial to understand the historical context of the 1959 quarter:
- Part of the Washington quarter series, which began in 1932 to commemorate George Washington's 200th birthday
- One of the last years of 90% silver composition before the transition to copper-nickel clad in 1965
- Minted during a time of significant cultural and technological change in America, including the Space Race
Composition and Specifications
The 1959 quarter's physical attributes contribute significantly to its value:
- Weight: 6.25 grams
- Diameter: 24.3 mm
- Composition: 90% silver, 10% copper
- Silver content: 0.18084 troy ounces
Mintage Figures and Rarity
Understanding the number of coins produced helps gauge rarity:
| Mint Location | Mintage |
|---|---|
| Philadelphia | 24,384,000 |
| Denver | 62,054,232 |
| Proof (Phila) | 1,149,291 |
While these numbers might seem high, remember that many coins were lost to circulation or melting over the years, making high-grade specimens increasingly rare.
Valuation Breakdown by Mint and Condition
The value of a 1959 quarter can vary dramatically based on its mint location and condition. Here's a comprehensive breakdown:
1959 Philadelphia (No Mint Mark)
| Condition | Value Range |
|---|---|
| Good (G-4) to Very Fine (VF-20) | $4.50 – $5.50 |
| Extremely Fine (XF-40) to About Uncirculated (AU-50) | $5.75 – $6.50 |
| Uncirculated (MS-60) to (MS-63) | $11 – $18 |
| Choice Uncirculated (MS-64) to (MS-66) | $20 – $60 |
| Superb Gem (MS-67) | $800 – $1,200 |
Notable sale: A 1959 MS-67+ quarter sold for an astounding $21,600 at a Heritage Auction in 2019.
1959-D (Denver)
| Condition | Value Range |
|---|---|
| Good (G-4) to Very Fine (VF-20) | $4.50 – $5.50 |
| Extremely Fine (XF-40) to About Uncirculated (AU-50) | $5.75 – $6.50 |
| Uncirculated (MS-60) to (MS-63) | $11 – $18 |
| Choice Uncirculated (MS-64) to (MS-66) | $20 – $100 |
| Superb Gem (MS-67) | $750 – $1,100 |
Record sale: An MS-67+ 1959-D quarter achieved $15,275 at a Stack's Bowers auction in 2020.
1959 Proof
| Condition | Value Range |
|---|---|
| Proof-60 to Proof-63 | $8 – $12 |
| Proof-64 to Proof-66 | $15 – $30 |
| Proof-67 to Proof-68 | $35 – $60 |
| Proof-69 | $80 – $120 |
Cameo and Deep Cameo proofs can command 20-50% premiums over these prices.
Factors Influencing Value
Several key elements determine a 1959 quarter's worth:
- Mint Mark: Denver (D) quarters are generally more common, but high-grade specimens can be valuable.
- Condition: The grade of a coin dramatically affects its value, with uncirculated coins fetching premium prices.
- Strike Quality: Well-struck coins with sharp details are more desirable.
- Luster: Original mint luster adds significant value to uncirculated coins.
- Toning: Natural, attractive toning can enhance a coin's appeal and value.
- Errors and Varieties: Rare minting errors or die varieties can command substantial premiums.
Notable Errors and Varieties
Collectors eagerly seek out these rare variations:
-
1959 Type B Reverse:
- Features the sharper, more detailed reverse design typically used on proofs
- In MS-66, can fetch $800-$1,000
-
1959 Doubled Die Obverse (DDO):
- Shows doubling on lettering and date
- In MS-65, valued at $300-$400
-
Off-Center Strikes:
- Value increases with the degree of off-centering
- A 50% off-center strike could be worth $500-$1,000
-
Wrong Planchet Errors:
- Struck on nickel planchet: $1,000-$1,500
- Struck on cent planchet: $800-$1,200
The Impact of Silver Content
The intrinsic silver value of a 1959 quarter plays a significant role in its overall worth:
- Silver content: 0.18084 troy ounces
- At current silver prices ($25/oz as of 2023), the melt value is approximately $4.52
However, it's important to note that melting these coins for silver is generally discouraged in the collecting community and may be illegal in some jurisdictions.
Grading: The Key to Accurate Valuation
Professional grading is crucial for determining a coin's true value. The Sheldon Scale, ranging from 1 (Poor) to 70 (Perfect Uncirculated), is the standard:
- MS-60 to MS-63: Uncirculated but with noticeable imperfections
- MS-64 to MS-66: Choice to Gem quality with minimal marks
- MS-67 and above: Superb Gem quality, extremely rare for 1959 quarters
Reputable grading services like PCGS (Professional Coin Grading Service) and NGC (Numismatic Guaranty Corporation) provide trusted certifications.
Market Trends and Collecting Strategies
The market for 1959 quarters remains robust, driven by:
- Increasing scarcity of high-grade specimens
- Growing interest in silver coinage
- Nostalgia for mid-20th century American coins
Collecting strategies:
- Focus on condition: Seek out the highest grade you can afford
- Look for toning: Naturally toned coins often command premiums
- Hunt for errors: Subtle mistakes can yield significant returns
- Consider certified coins: Third-party grading adds confidence and often value
Preservation Tips for Collectors
To maintain the value of your 1959 quarters:
- Handle coins by the edges, using cotton gloves if possible
- Store in non-PVC, inert holders or albums
- Avoid cleaning or polishing, which can damage the coin's surface
- Keep coins away from humidity and extreme temperatures
Where to Buy and Sell 1959 Quarters
- Reputable coin dealers (in-person and online)
- Major auction houses like Heritage Auctions or Stack's Bowers
- Online marketplaces (eBay, but exercise caution and verify authenticity)
- Local coin shops and shows
- Numismatic associations and clubs
Always verify the authenticity and grade before making significant purchases, especially for higher-value specimens.
The Future of 1959 Quarter Collecting
As we look ahead, several factors suggest a bright future for 1959 quarter collecting:
- Increasing Scarcity: As more coins are lost to time or melting, high-grade specimens become rarer.
- Growing Interest in Vintage US Coinage: Younger collectors are showing renewed interest in mid-20th century coins.
- Silver Content Appeal: The intrinsic value of silver provides a "floor" for the coin's worth.
- Historical Significance: Representing the end of an era in US coinage, 1959 quarters hold particular appeal.
Conclusion: The Enduring Allure of the 1959 Quarter
While a typical circulated 1959 quarter might be worth its silver melt value of around $4.50, the right specimen in the right condition could easily be a three, four, or even five-figure coin. The 1959 quarter embodies a fascinating slice of American history, from its classic design to its silver composition, making it a perennial favorite among collectors.
Whether you're a seasoned numismatist or a curious beginner, the 1959 quarter offers a gateway into the captivating world of coin collecting. Its combination of historical significance, potential for valuable errors, and the thrill of the hunt make it a coin that continues to capture imaginations and portfolios alike.
Remember, in numismatics, knowledge is as valuable as the coins themselves. Keep learning, stay curious, and who knows – you might just discover that rare 1959 quarter that takes your collection to new heights. Happy collecting!
