Who Is On The Quarter?
Who Is on the Quarter?
Quarter coins have long been an essential part of United States currency, serving both as a reliable medium of exchange and as a collection of historical symbols. Known formally as the 25-cent piece, the quarter has featured various significant figures and designs throughout its history. From celebrating presidents to honoring trailblazing women like Anna May Wong and Celia Cruz, these coins capture the diverse essence of American history and culture. For collectors, understanding who is on the quarter and its historical relevance adds to the numismatic value and educational appeal of these iconic coins.
Popular and Rare 25-Cent Coins
| Name | Year | Price | Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Washington Quarter | 1932 | $3 – $1,200 | First issue, silver composition |
| Drummer Boy Quarter | 1976 | $1 – $100 | Bicentennial design, drummer boy reverse |
| Statehood Quarters | 1999 | $0.25 – $3 | 50 states featured, popular with beginners |
| America the Beautiful | 2010 | $0.25 – $2 | National parks theme, collector favorites |
| Standing Liberty Quarter | 1916 | $150 – $20,000 | Key date, low mintage |
| 50 States Quarters | 1999–2008 | Varies by condition | Iconic series, diverse designs |
| Washington Crossing the Delaware | 2021 | $0.25 – $1,000 | Limited issue, detailed reverse style |
| Susan B. Anthony Quarter | 1999 | $1 – $50 | Misfit series, transitional design |
| Anna May Wong Quarter | 2022 | $0.25 – $5 | Celebrates Asian American actress |
| Celia Cruz Quarter | 2023 | Not publicly disclosed | Honoring “Queen of Salsa” singer |
These coins reflect a mix of common circulation finds and collector’s treasures, each with unique historical and artistic elements significant to the identity and culture of the United States. Whether it’s the artistry or a pivotal historical figure, the quarter offers numismatists an array of fascinating collecting opportunities.
Key Dates and Identification
Key dates for quarters are those mint years that are rarer, have lower mintage, or contain unique traits that make them highly sought after by collectors. Identifying valuable examples involves examining several features including mint marks, condition, and specific diagnostics.
Mint marks are small letters indicating the mint where a coin was produced, found near the date on the obverse side. For instance, a “D” represents the Denver Mint, while an “S” signifies the San Francisco Mint. For U.S. quarters, especially older ones, a lack of mint mark may suggest it was produced in Philadelphia.
Condition, or a coin’s state of preservation, drastically affects its desirability. Coins are graded on a scale from Poor (P) to Mint State (MS), with higher grades commanding higher prices. Collectors often use magnifying tools to spot signs of wear.
Important diagnostics for key dates might include unique die varieties or errors, such as double strikes or off-center errors. These features not only confirm a coin’s authenticity but can also significantly boost its value. Verifying these diagnostics requires expert knowledge and sometimes professional grading services.
Overall, understanding what makes specific quarters pivotal dates in numismatic circles helps both new and seasoned collectors make informed decisions about which pieces to add to their collections.
Top 10 Rare Coins List
1916 Standing Liberty Quarter
The 1916 Standing Liberty Quarter is widely sought after due to its low mintage, debuting a classic design by sculptor Hermon A. MacNeil. Its scarcity makes it a prized piece among numismatists.
- Mintage: Only 52,000 minted
- Designer: Hermon A. MacNeil
- Date and Type: First year of issue, Type 1 design
The coin introduced the Standing Liberty design, which would only last until 1930 before the Washington quarter design took over. It had a silver composition typical of older quarters.
1932-D Washington Quarter
A cornerstone for collectors, the 1932-D Washington Quarter features a low mintage from the Denver Mint and serves as the first year of the widely recognized Washington Quarter series.
- Denomination Introduction: First year of Washington Quarter
- Mint Mark Location: “D” located on the reverse
- Composition: 90% silver, 10% copper
Produced to honor George Washington’s 200th birthday, the quarter was only minted in Denver and San Francisco, with other mint variants proving even rarer.
1950-D/S Washington Quarter
This variety features a Denver mint mark overlayed on a San Francisco mint mark. This minting error is a classic example that attracts enthusiasts looking for mint mark errors and varieties.
- Error Type: Over mint mark
- Diagnostic: Clear “D over S” on reverse
- Appeal: Highly sought after for error collectors
This quarter is a perfect example showcasing the intrigue of minting nuances and errors.
1999-P Delaware Spitting Horse Quarter
With an unusual die crack error, the 1999-P Delaware Quarter became famous for what collectors nickname as the “Spitting Horse.”
- Type: Die crack error
- Feature: Separating line under the horse’s mouth
- Series: First state quarter, adding to its allure
Introducing the innovative State Quarters series, the value of this coin is enhanced with the error, making it ideal for seasoned collectors.
1970-S Washington Quarter (Proof)
This proof version is especially valued due to a doubled die obverse, with examples displaying deep cameo contrast, appealing to both modern collectors and error enthusiasts.
- Feature: Doubled die obverse
- Appeal: Strong cameo contrast
- Proof Coin: Created for collectors with high-quality standards
While most proof coins are not rare, this specimen offers certain aspects that increase its numismatic interest.
1976-S Bicentennial Silver Quarter
Celebrating America’s 200th anniversary, this silver-clad quarter replaced the standard eagle with a special drummer boy design. Limited in production for special bicentennial year sets.
- Composition: Silver-clad
- Special Feature: Bicentennial drummer boy reverse
- Collectibility: Unique to 1976
With a dual date of “1776-1976”, this coin stands out in any collection.
2004-D Wisconsin Extra Leaf Quarter
An interesting anomaly in the Wisconsin state quarter, featuring an additional leaf on the corn husk, has intrigued those who hunt for unique minting quirks.
- Varieties: Extra “High Leaf” and “Low Leaf” anomalies
- Unexpected Feature: Additional leaf on design
- Collectability: High demand in state quarter series
These variances happen post-minting, creating curiosity around state-specific legacies.
1964-D Washington Quarter (SMS)
Though officially not part of Special Mint Set issues, some 1964-D quarters show exceptional striking and finish, suggesting an unofficial mint set status.
- Noteworthy: Arguably prototype striking style
- Appeal: A mystery within U.S. Mint history
- Visuals: Especially crisp details
While regular strike examples are abundant, the SMS variety is shrouded in mystery, adding to its allure.
1982 No Mint Mark Washington Quarter
This error coin is unique as it lacks the usual “P” mintmark, which should be present on the Philadelphia-minted quarters.
- Error Type: No mintmark
- Significance: Misclassified die or mint error
- Collectors’ Interest: Rare due to mint oversight
Such oversight not only surprises collectors but fuels interest in subtle mint errors across modern quarters.
2022 American Women Quarters Program – Maya Angelou
Kicking off a brand-new series to honor prominent American women, the Maya Angelou quarter launched shortly after the state series, drawing significant attention for its cultural tribute.
- Significance: Part of American Women Quarters Program
- Release: Debuting series honoring influential women
- Composition: Usual modern quarter specifications
Her inclusion invigorated widespread appeal among public collectors, sparking discourse on diversity and representation in numismatics.
Who Is On The Quarter FAQ
Who is on the US quarter?
The US quarter traditionally features George Washington on the obverse, rendering him the president on the quarter. Washington’s portrait has been the most consistent element, appearing since the coin’s redesign in 1932.
Who is on the new quarter and why?
Recent panels of quarters have included trailblazing women like Anna May Wong and Celia Cruz as part of initiatives like the American Women Quarters Program. These figures were chosen to celebrate their significant contributions to arts and culture.
What is the value of a quarter with an error?
Error quarters can vary in value depending on the type and rarity of the mistake. Errors can multiply a quarter’s value significantly, sometimes making them worth hundreds or thousands to collectors seeking these unique pieces.
Who is Anna May Wong on the quarter?
Anna May Wong was a pioneering Chinese American actress and fashion icon, recognized for breaking racial barriers in Hollywood. She is celebrated on a recent quarter for her cultural and historical impact in the film industry.
How can I find who is on the back of the new quarter?
The reverse side of newer quarters often features rotating designs celebrating cultural icons, important landmarks, or historical events. To find specifics, checking the US Mint’s announcements or publications is the most reliable method.
Is there a woman on the US quarter other than Washington?
Yes, upcoming quarters have featured prominent women like Maya Angelou and Dr. Sally Ride, highlighting their achievements as part of programs emphasizing diversity and history.
How do I determine the worth of a quarter?
The worth of a quarter depends on factors like its condition, rarity, year issued, and any errors it might have. Consulting a coin price guide or evaluating recent auction results can provide insights into its current market value.
Who is Celia Cruz on the quarter?
Celia Cruz was a legendary Cuban-American singer known as the ‘Queen of Salsa.’ Her presence on the quarter serves to honor her influential role in bringing Latin music to a global audience and promoting cultural heritage.
Who is usually on the American quarter?
Normally, American quarters feature George Washington on the obverse, while the reverse side changes to reflect themes of national significance, including states, national parks, or historically significant individuals.
What should collectors look for when seeking valuable quarters?
Collectors should pay attention to detail, such as mint marks, condition, and any unique characteristics like errors or proof finishes, as these elements significantly impact the quarter’s desirability and value.