West Point quarters have become a crown jewel for modern coin collectors since their introduction in 2019. As a seasoned numismatist with over 30 years of experience, I'm excited to share an in-depth look at these fascinating coins, their value, and what makes them truly special in the world of U.S. coinage.
The Birth of the West Point Quarter
The West Point Mint, established in 1937, has a rich history of producing gold coins and commemorative issues. However, it wasn't until 2019 that this facility struck its first circulating quarters, marking a significant milestone in U.S. numismatics.
Key facts about West Point quarters:
- Produced as part of the America the Beautiful quarter series
- Limited mintage of 2 million for each design annually
- First-ever quarters to bear the "W" mint mark
Design Features That Set Them Apart
Obverse Design
The obverse features John Flanagan's iconic portrait of George Washington, first introduced in 1932. The key distinguishing feature is the "W" mint mark, located below "IN GOD WE TRUST."
Reverse Designs
The reverse showcases various national parks and historic sites:
2019 Designs:
- Lowell National Historical Park (Massachusetts)
- American Memorial Park (Northern Mariana Islands)
- War in the Pacific National Historical Park (Guam)
- San Antonio Missions National Historical Park (Texas)
- Frank Church River of No Return Wilderness (Idaho)
2020 Designs:
- National Park of American Samoa (American Samoa)
- Weir Farm National Historic Site (Connecticut)
- Salt River Bay National Historical Park (U.S. Virgin Islands)
- Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park (Vermont)
- Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve (Kansas)
West Point Quarter Values: A Comprehensive Analysis
As a collector, understanding the value of West Point quarters is crucial. Here's a detailed breakdown based on my experience and current market data:
2019 W Quarters
| Design | MS60-62 | MS63-64 | MS65-66 | MS67 | MS68 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lowell | $15-18 | $20-25 | $30-50 | $80-100 | $250-300 |
| American Memorial Park | $18-20 | $25-30 | $50-80 | $100-150 | $300-350 |
| War in the Pacific | $15-18 | $20-25 | $30-50 | $80-100 | $250-300 |
| San Antonio Missions | $15-18 | $20-25 | $30-50 | $80-100 | $250-300 |
| Frank Church River of No Return Wilderness | $15-18 | $20-25 | $30-50 | $80-100 | $250-300 |
2020 W Quarters
| Design | MS60-62 | MS63-64 | MS65-66 | MS67 | MS68 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| National Park of American Samoa | $10-15 | $20-25 | $30-50 | $650-800 | $1500-1800 |
| Weir Farm | $10-15 | $20-25 | $30-50 | $650-800 | $1500-1800 |
| Salt River Bay | $10-15 | $20-25 | $30-50 | $650-800 | $1500-1800 |
| Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller | $10-15 | $20-25 | $30-85 | $800-1100 | $1800-2200 |
| Tallgrass Prairie | $7-12 | $15-20 | $25-40 | $650-800 | $1500-1800 |
Note: These values are based on current market trends and can fluctuate. Always consult recent sales data for the most accurate pricing.
Factors Influencing West Point Quarter Values
- Condition: Mint State (MS) coins, particularly those graded MS67 and above, command significant premiums.
- Design Popularity: Some designs, like the 2019 American Memorial Park quarter, have gained more traction among collectors.
- Rarity: While all West Point quarters are scarce, certain grades of specific designs are harder to find.
- Market Demand: As interest in the series grows, we've seen values appreciate, especially for high-grade specimens.
Collecting Strategies for West Point Quarters
- Focus on Quality: Given the limited mintage, prioritize coins in the best condition you can afford.
- Complete the Set: Assembling all ten designs can be a rewarding challenge for collectors.
- Look for Errors: Some known errors, like the 2019 W Lowell Quarter with an obverse strike-through, can significantly increase a coin's value.
- Stay Informed: Keep abreast of market trends and new discoveries in the series.
The Hunt for West Point Quarters in Circulation
While finding a West Point quarter in pocket change is challenging, it's not impossible. Here are some strategies I recommend:
- Check Your Change: Always examine quarters received in transactions.
- Bank Rolls: Purchase rolls of quarters from banks and search through them.
- Coin Shows: Attend numismatic events where dealers may have West Point quarters for sale.
- Online Marketplaces: Reputable coin dealers and auction sites often have West Point quarters available.
West Point Quarter Errors: A Numismatist's Perspective
Even with modern minting technology, errors can occur. The most notable error in the West Point quarter series is the 2019 W Lowell Quarter with an obverse strike-through:
- A small extra line appears on Washington's hair
- Visible only under magnification
- Can increase the coin's value by 50-100% depending on the error's prominence
The Future of West Point Quarters
While the West Point Mint only produced quarters in 2019 and 2020, the popularity of these coins may influence future minting decisions. As a collector and expert, I recommend:
- Stay Informed: Keep an eye on U.S. Mint announcements for potential future "W" mint mark quarters.
- Preserve Current Collections: Proper storage and handling can maintain the value of existing West Point quarters.
- Consider Long-Term Value: As the first of their kind, these quarters have strong potential for appreciation.
Historical Context and Numismatic Significance
To truly appreciate West Point quarters, it's essential to understand their place in U.S. coinage history:
- They represent the first time the "W" mint mark appeared on circulating quarters.
- Their limited mintage of 2 million per design is significantly lower than typical circulating quarters, which often see mintages in the hundreds of millions.
- The decision to produce these quarters aligns with the U.S. Mint's efforts to reinvigorate interest in coin collecting among the general public.
Comparative Rarity and Value
To put the scarcity of West Point quarters into perspective, let's compare them to other modern U.S. coins:
| Coin | Mintage | Approx. Value (MS65) |
|---|---|---|
| 2019 W Lowell Quarter | 2,000,000 | $30-50 |
| 2019 P Lowell Quarter | 182,600,000 | $1-2 |
| 2019 S Silver Proof Set Quarter | 2,995,573 | $15-20 |
This comparison illustrates why West Point quarters have garnered such interest among collectors.
Authentication and Grading Considerations
As with any valuable coin, authentication and grading are crucial for West Point quarters. Here are some key points to consider:
- Third-party grading services like PCGS and NGC provide valuable authentication and condition assessment.
- Look for consistent strike quality, especially on the "W" mint mark.
- Be wary of counterfeit coins, particularly when purchasing ungraded specimens online.
Investment Potential of West Point Quarters
While collecting should primarily be driven by passion, many numismatists also consider the investment potential of their coins. Here are some factors that could influence the future value of West Point quarters:
- Limited mintage creates inherent scarcity
- Growing interest in modern U.S. coins among collectors
- Historical significance as the first "W" mint mark quarters
- Potential for discovery of new varieties or errors
Conclusion: The Enduring Appeal of West Point Quarters
West Point quarters represent a unique chapter in American numismatics. Their limited mintage, historical significance, and beautiful designs make them a compelling addition to any collection. As both a collector and an expert in the field, I can attest to the excitement these coins have generated in the numismatic community.
Whether you're a seasoned collector or just starting out, West Point quarters offer an exciting opportunity to own a piece of modern minting history. Remember that condition is key, research is essential, and the thrill of the hunt is part of the experience.
As we look to the future, it's clear that West Point quarters will continue to hold a special place in U.S. coinage. Their scarcity, combined with their historical significance, ensures that they will remain sought-after by collectors for years to come. Happy collecting!
