1942 Washington Quarter Value: $9 to $18,975 Price Guide

1942 Washington Quarter: Overview and Value

The 1942 Washington Quarter represents the final full year of wartime silver coinage

The 1942 Washington Quarter stands at a unique crossroads in American numismatic history. As the last full year of production before World War II completely consumed the U.S. Mint's resources, these quarters were struck under frantic wartime conditions that created both extreme commonality and extraordinary rarity. The Philadelphia Mint alone produced over 102 million quarters, yet these hurried production methods spawned valuable die varieties that today command thousands of dollars.

Values range from $9.25 for circulated common-date examples (driven by silver melt value) to $18,975 for the finest-known 1942-S specimens. The famous 1942-D Doubled Die Obverse (DDO FS-101) carries premiums in all grades, while the 1942 Proof issue holds special significance as the final collector proof struck until 1950.

This guide covers identification, pricing for all mint marks and strike types, major die varieties, mint errors, and grading diagnostics to help you determine your coin's value.

How to Identify Your 1942 Washington Quarter

The mint mark location is critical for determining value

All 1942 Washington Quarters share John Flanagan's classic design introduced in 1932. The obverse features George Washington's left-facing portrait, with "LIBERTY" above, "IN GOD WE TRUST" to the left, and the date "1942" below. The reverse displays a heraldic eagle with spread wings, perched on a fasces of arrows and an olive branch, with "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" and "E PLURIBUS UNUM" above and "QUARTER DOLLAR" below.

Mint Mark Identification

The mint mark appears on the reverse side of the coin, below the center of the olive wreath, directly above the "R" in the word "QUARTER". This location remained standard for Washington Quarters until 1968.

• No mint mark (Philadelphia): The space above the "R" is blank. This is the most common issue with a mintage exceeding 102 million.
• "D" (Denver): A small "D" appears in this location. Mintage: 17,487,200.
• "S" (San Francisco): A small "S" appears in this location. While the mintage of 19,384,000 is slightly higher than Denver's, well-struck examples are significantly scarcer due to die erosion issues. Two "S" mint mark styles exist (Trumpet-Tail and Serif), but they carry no meaningful premium difference.

Business Strike vs Proof

The 1942 Proof quarter was the final proof coin struck before production ceased for World War II. Proofs feature mirror-like fields and frosted devices, were specially struck for collectors, and have a mintage of just 21,123. Business strikes show varying degrees of strike quality depending on mint and were intended for circulation.

Composition and Specifications

All 1942 quarters contain 90% silver and 10% copper, with a statutory weight of 6.25 grams and a diameter of 24.3 mm. The actual silver weight (ASW) is 0.1808 troy ounces, which forms the basis for melt value calculations. The edge is reeded.

1942 Washington Quarter Values by Grade and Mint Mark

Understanding grade differences is essential for accurate valuation

Market values for 1942 Washington Quarters vary dramatically based on mint mark, grade, and the presence of die varieties. The following price data reflects retail estimates from PCGS and NGC as of November 2025, supplemented by recent auction results from Heritage Auctions, GreatCollections, and Stack's Bowers.

1942 (Philadelphia) Washington Quarter

The Philadelphia issue is the most common 1942 quarter, with a massive mintage of 102,096,000. In circulated grades, values are tied directly to silver content. However, the coin demonstrates classic "condition rarity" at higher Mint State levels. The hurried wartime production resulted in many coins with inferior strikes and surface quality, making pristine MS-67 examples elusive and MS-68 specimens extremely rare.

1942-D (Denver) Washington Quarter

With a mintage of 17,487,200, the 1942-D is substantially scarcer than its Philadelphia counterpart. However, PCGS authority David Hall notes it is "not a rarity in Gem condition" and can be readily located with frosty luster. This relative accessibility in Mint State keeps values below the 1942-S.

The MS-68 market shows significant price guide divergence between PCGS ($7,250) and NGC ($4,000), indicating a thin market with limited transactions. A PCGS MS-68 sold for $2,640 in July 2025, well below guide values.

1942-S (San Francisco) Washington Quarter

Despite having a mintage of 19,384,000 (slightly higher than the 1942-D), the 1942-S commands substantially higher values in all Mint State grades. This apparent paradox is explained by production quality issues. NGC notes the 1942-S suffered from "die erosion and subsequent repolishing," resulting in many poorly detailed coins. David Hall of PCGS confirms that in the mid-20th century, the 1942-S was "considered the rarest Washington quarter of the 1940s."

While more Gem examples have since been located, finding a well-struck, high-grade specimen remains challenging. The population of quality coins is low, supporting stable, high valuations with strong agreement between PCGS and NGC.

Auction Record: A PCGS MS-68 1942-S Washington Quarter sold for $18,975 in January 2004 at Heritage Auctions, establishing the modern record for a business strike 1942 quarter.

1942 Proof Washington Quarter

The 1942 Proof holds special significance as the final pre-war collector proof

The Philadelphia Mint produced 21,123 proof quarters in 1942. This issue holds special significance as the final proof coin struck before all numismatic production ceased for World War II. Proof coinage would not resume until 1950, making this the "end of an era" issue.

Proofs from 1942 are generally well-made and plentiful in the PR-64 to PR-66 range. However, a known production issue involved overpolished dies (used to extend die life), which often resulted in weak or missing details. Examples in PR-67 are scarcer, and PR-68 specimens are very rare. Cameo (CAM) or Deep Cameo (DCAM) designated coins—which exhibit frosty devices contrasting with mirrored fields—are exceptionally rare for this era and command extreme premiums when they appear.

Major 1942 Washington Quarter Die Varieties

The 1942-D DDO FS-101 is the most valuable and recognizable variety of the year

The hurried, three-shift production conditions of 1942 created an environment ripe for dramatic die varieties. Worn dies that should have been retired remained in service, and the pressure to maintain output led to careless die preparation. The result is a rich variety landscape, with several major Doubled Die Obverses (DDOs) and Doubled Die Reverses (DDRs) that command significant premiums across all grades.

These varieties are cataloged using the Fivaz-Stanton (FS) system from the Cherrypicker's Guide, as well as by CONECA (Combined Organizations of Numismatic Error Collectors of America) and VarietyVista attributions.

1942-D DDO FS-101 (PCGS #95818)

This is the most famous and valuable variety of 1942. The 1942-D Doubled Die Obverse FS-101 features exceptionally strong and clear doubling on "LIBERTY," "IN GOD WE TRUST," and the date "1942". The doubling is visible to the naked eye on higher-grade examples and is dramatic enough to be identifiable even on worn specimens. This variety carries a significant premium in all grades, from Good through Mint State.

1942-D DDR FS-801 (PCGS #85818)

Another major, valuable variety for the 1942-D, the Doubled Die Reverse FS-801 shows clear doubling on the reverse lettering. Like the DDO, this variety is valuable in all grades and commands multi-thousand-dollar prices in Mint State.

1942 (Philadelphia) DDO FS-101 (PCGS #146056)

The Philadelphia issue also produced a significant doubled die obverse, showing clear, distinct doubling on the obverse inscriptions "LIBERTY" and "IN GOD WE TRUST". While less dramatic than the Denver DDO, it remains a popular and collectible variety.

Auction Record: GreatCollections has recorded sales ranging from $84 in lower grades to $578 for an MS-65 example.

1942 (Philadelphia) DDR FS-801 (PCGS #146057)

Also known as CONECA DDR-002 or Fivaz-Stanton FS-014, this variety shows strong doubling on the reverse, particularly on "E PLURIBUS UNUM." This is a major and highly valuable variety. The NGC Price Guide estimates that pristine uncirculated examples can sell for "as much as $8,500."

Auction Records: A PCGS XF-40 sold for over $400. A PCGS VF-30 sold in 2016. An MS-63 example sold at Heritage Auctions in January 2012.

1942-D Repunched Mint Marks (RPMs)

VarietyVista lists at least eight minor RPMs for the 1942-D (RPM-001 through RPM-008). These show minor secondary images of the "D" mint mark, typically shifted South, Southeast, or North. While numismatically interesting, these are minor varieties that add only a modest premium. An NGC MS-66 example was offered for $129.99, and raw examples are offered for as low as $19.99. They do not command the significant values of the DDO and DDR varieties.

1942-S RPM FS-501 (S/S South) (PCGS #929368)

This is the primary RPM variety for the 1942-S, recognized by PCGS, NGC (as VP-001), and VarietyVista (as RPM-004, S/S South). This variety appears to be a "sleeper" or thinly traded issue. While it is a major FS-designated variety, auction records are scarce. PCGS lists a price guide value of $800 for an MS-66 example. However, the PCGS CoinFacts page lists "N/A" (Not Available) for its auction record, suggesting very few high-grade examples have sold publicly. No reliable public pricing is available for circulated grades.

1942 Washington Quarter Mint Errors

Mint errors are distinct from die varieties. While varieties like doubled dies are repeated on every coin struck from a specific die, errors such as off-center strikes or wrong planchets are unique, one-off minting mistakes. Error coins result from mechanical failures or human oversight during the minting process.

The wartime production pressures of 1942—three-shift workdays, hurried conditions, worn equipment—created an environment where mint errors occurred with greater frequency than peacetime years. While not as valuable as the major die varieties, significant errors can still command premiums of several hundred dollars.

Lamination Errors

Identification: A lamination error occurs when impurities in the 90% silver alloy cause the metal to delaminate, resulting in a visible flake, peel, or crack on the coin's surface. This defect can appear on the obverse, reverse, or edge of the coin and is caused by contaminants introduced during the alloying or planchet rolling process.

Valuation: Lamination errors are relatively common and considered minor errors. Market examples for 1942 quarters with lamination errors show retail prices in the $35 to $59 range. Value depends on the size and location of the delamination—large, dramatic flakes on the portrait or eagle command higher prices than small edge splits.

Off-Center Strikes

Identification: This error occurs when the planchet (blank coin) is not properly seated between the dies during the strike. As a result, a portion of the design is left off the coin, and a corresponding crescent-shaped area of the blank planchet remains visible. The error's value increases dramatically if both the date "1942" and mint mark remain fully visible on the struck portion.

Valuation: Off-center strikes are highly collectible, with value tied directly to the percentage off-center and the visibility of key identifiers. A minor (5-10%) off-center strike may trade for $50-$100. A dramatic (40-60%) off-center strike that clearly shows the "1942" date and mint mark could command $300-$500 or more. Extreme examples (75%+) with full date visibility can exceed $1,000 at auction.

Broadstrikes

Identification: A broadstrike error occurs when a coin is struck without the retaining collar in place. The retaining collar is the circular die that surrounds the planchet during striking and creates the reeded edge. Without it, the metal expands outward during the strike, resulting in a coin that is larger in diameter than a normal quarter (often 26-28mm vs. the standard 24.3mm) and has a plain, flat edge with no reeding whatsoever.

Valuation: Broadstrikes are dramatic and visually appealing errors that are popular with collectors. The document notes they are "worth tons of money." A graded, unambiguous broadstrike from 1942 would likely be valued at $200-$400, with the price increasing based on the degree of expansion and the overall visual appeal of the error. Broadstrikes that show full design detail and dramatic size increase command the highest premiums.

Grading the 1942 Washington Quarter

Understanding wear patterns is essential for accurate grade determination

Accurately grading a Washington Quarter is essential for determining its value, as prices can increase exponentially between grades—particularly at the MS-65 to MS-68 levels. For circulated coins, the first-to-wear areas dictate the grade. For uncirculated coins, the number and severity of contact marks, combined with luster quality and eye appeal, determine the Mint State designation.

Circulated Grades (G-4 Through AU-58)

Wear first appears as a dullness or "flattening" of the highest points of the design. As circulation continues, these high points lose detail entirely, eventually wearing smooth.

Obverse Wear Points: The first areas to show wear are Washington's cheekbone and the curls of hair just above his ear. In Good (G-4) grade, the hair detail is almost completely worn away, and the cheekbone is flat. In Very Fine (VF-20), the hair shows moderate wear but individual strands remain visible. In Extremely Fine (EF-40), only slight wear appears on the highest curls and cheekbone, with most hair detail intact.

Reverse Wear Points: The first areas to wear on the reverse are the highest points of the eagle's breast and the tops of its legs. In lower grades, these areas appear flat and featureless. In higher circulated grades, feather definition remains on the breast, and leg detail is largely intact.

About Uncirculated (AU-50 to AU-58): These grades show only slight friction on the high points—no actual wear has removed metal, but the original mint luster has been disrupted by light handling or brief circulation. AU-58 coins retain 90% or more of their original luster and are nearly indistinguishable from Mint State examples to the untrained eye.

Mint State Grades (MS-60 Through MS-68)

Strike quality varies significantly between mints and is a major grading factor

Uncirculated coins show no wear whatsoever. Grading is instead determined by the quantity, size, and location of contact marks (bagmarks from coins striking each other during production and handling), combined with luster quality, strike strength, and overall eye appeal.

MS-60 to MS-63: These lower Mint State grades show numerous contact marks, particularly in the open fields. MS-60 coins may have heavy marks on Washington's cheek or in the field to the left of his portrait—the most visually distracting area. MS-63 coins show fewer marks and retain more original luster.

MS-64 to MS-65: These "Choice" and "Gem" grades show significantly fewer marks. MS-65 coins may have one or two small marks in the fields but no major distractions. Luster is strong and original. Strike quality becomes more important at this level—weak strikes on the eagle's breast feathers or Washington's hair can prevent a coin from reaching MS-65 even if marks are minimal.

MS-66 to MS-68: These "Premium Gem" and "Superb Gem" grades represent condition rarity. MS-66 coins are essentially mark-free with exceptional luster and strike. MS-67 coins show virtually perfect surfaces with only microscopic imperfections visible under magnification. MS-68 coins are extraordinarily rare and represent the finest-known examples. At this level, even minor luster inconsistencies or the slightest strike weakness can prevent a higher grade.

Proof Grades (PR-60 Through PR-70)

Proof coins are graded on a separate scale because they were struck using polished dies and specially prepared planchets. The grading criteria focus on the preservation of the mirrored fields and frosted devices.

PR-60 to PR-63: These grades show hairlines (fine scratches) in the mirrored fields from cleaning or improper handling. The frosted devices may also show light wear or abrasions.

PR-64 to PR-66: These grades show fewer hairlines and better preservation of the original proof surfaces. PR-65 is the standard "Gem Proof" grade, showing minimal imperfections.

PR-67 to PR-70: These represent exceptional preservation. PR-67 coins show virtually perfect fields and devices. PR-68 coins are extremely rare for 1942, as most proofs have at least minor hairlines from 80+ years of handling. PR-69 coins are nearly flawless, with only the slightest imperfection visible under magnification. PR-70 ("Perfect Proof") is extraordinarily rare for vintage proofs and may not exist for 1942.

Special Designations for Proofs

Proof quarters from 1942 can receive Cameo (CAM) or Deep Cameo (DCAM) designations when they exhibit strong contrast between frosty devices (Washington's portrait, the eagle) and deeply mirrored fields. These designations are exceptionally rare for 1942 proofs, as the mint's die polishing techniques were not yet optimized to produce this contrast consistently. A 1942 Proof with a CAM or DCAM designation would command an extreme premium over a standard proof of the same numerical grade.

Authentication and Counterfeit Detection

Cleaned coins lose their collectible value and show telltale signs of surface disturbance

While common-date 1942 quarters are not primary targets for sophisticated counterfeiting beyond fakes sold for melt value, the high-value die varieties—particularly the 1942-D DDO FS-101—face significant counterfeit risk. Authentication should be considered mandatory for any high-value purchase, whether raw or in a holder. Additionally, cleaned or artificially toned coins represent a major category of "problem coins" that trade for significantly less than properly preserved examples.

The most reliable authentication involves submitting the coin to a professional third-party grading service like PCGS or NGC. These services employ expert graders and advanced technology to detect counterfeits. However, collectors can employ several non-destructive tests before purchase.

Weight and Dimensions: A genuine 1942 Washington Quarter must weigh exactly 6.25 grams. Counterfeits are frequently incorrect in weight. One documented fake was significantly overweight at 6.94 grams and thicker than genuine at 2.11mm versus the standard 1.75mm. A precise digital scale and caliper are inexpensive tools that can immediately detect many fakes. The diameter should measure 24.3mm.

Electronic Testing: Non-destructive electronic testers, such as a Precious Metal Verifier (PMV), are considered "probably still the best non-destructive testing method" for 90% silver coins. These devices measure electrical conductivity and can detect incorrect alloy compositions without damaging the coin. The "ping test" (dropping the coin to hear its ring) is not reliable for 90% silver coins because the alloy composition and small size make the sound difference between genuine and counterfeit "less noticeable" and highly subjective.

Die Variety Diagnostics: For high-value varieties like the 1942-D DDO, the coin must exactly match established die markers published in references like the Cherrypicker's Guide, PCGS CoinFacts, or VarietyVista. Counterfeiters often create crude "doubled" designs that do not match the precise die characteristics of genuine varieties. Authentic varieties show specific die cracks, polishing lines, and doubling patterns that are consistent across all genuine examples.

Detecting Cleaned Coins: Cleaning a coin is considered irreversible damage in numismatics. A cleaned coin loses its original mint luster and surface characteristics, destroying its collectible value. Cleaned coins receive a "details" grade (e.g., "EF Details - Cleaned") from grading services and often trade near melt value regardless of their apparent condition. Key signs of cleaning include: (1) Hairline scratches—a network of fine, parallel scratches in a swirling pattern, visible under magnification, indicating abrasive cleaning; (2) Loss of luster—the coin may appear "shiny" but will look "dead" or "lifeless," lacking the original mint luster's "cartwheel effect" (a rotating band of light visible as the coin is tilted); (3) Unnatural color—a dull, flat, or gray appearance can indicate chemical dipping, while splotchy, unnaturally vibrant colors resembling "rainbows" may indicate artificial toning, a form of coin doctoring.

When purchasing a 1942 quarter of significant value, especially die varieties or high-grade specimens, insist on a coin certified by PCGS or NGC in a sealed holder. The cost of certification is a small fraction of the coin's value and provides both authentication and protection.

Preservation and Storage Best Practices

Proper storage and handling are essential to protect a coin's surfaces and preserve its value. Damage from improper storage—including PVC contamination, fingerprints, or environmental toning—can permanently reduce a coin's grade and value.

Handling: Never touch the face (obverse or reverse) of a coin. Natural oils and acids from skin cause permanent toning and corrosion over time. Always hold coins by their reeded edges. For valuable coins, handling with soft, lint-free cotton gloves is recommended. When examining a coin, hold it over a soft surface to prevent damage if dropped.

Storage Environment: Store coins in a cool, dry place with stable humidity levels. Avoid attics, basements, or areas with temperature fluctuations. High humidity accelerates toning and can cause spotting on silver coins. Extreme dryness can cause certain holders to become brittle.

Archival-Safe Holders: Use only materials that are inert and "archival safe." Recommended holders include: hard plastic capsules (airtite or similar), 2x2 mylar flips (inert and acid-free), acid-free paper envelopes, or graded slabs from PCGS or NGC, which provide the best long-term protection. Avoid the following: soft, flexible plastic flips (often contain polyvinyl chloride/PVC, which breaks down into a green, damaging residue that permanently damages coin surfaces), rubber bands (cause black sulfur tarnish from sulfur compounds in the rubber), tape, and staples (cause scratches and surface damage).

If you discover older coins stored in soft PVC flips, transfer them immediately to archival-safe holders. The green residue from PVC breakdown cannot be safely removed and permanently devalues the coin. Long-term storage in album pages is acceptable only if the pages are explicitly labeled "PVC-free" and acid-free. Check albums annually for signs of toning or discoloration.

Recent Auction Results and Market Trends

Auction records provide real-world validation of price guide estimates and reveal market trends for specific grades and varieties. The following notable results illustrate the current market for 1942 Washington Quarters as of 2024-2025.

1942-S MS-68: The all-time record for a business strike 1942 quarter remains the January 2004 sale of a PCGS MS-68 1942-S for $18,975 at Heritage Auctions. This spectacular coin established the modern benchmark for the issue. Current price guides value MS-68 examples at $7,750-$7,850, suggesting the 2004 sale may have been influenced by competitive bidding or exceptional eye appeal.

1942 (P) MS-68 Toned: In a recent GreatCollections auction, a PCGS MS-68 1942 Philadelphia quarter with attractive toning realized $8,718.75, demonstrating that pristine examples with superior eye appeal continue to command five-figure prices. The toning likely contributed to the strong result, as naturally toned coins are increasingly sought by collectors.

1942-D MS-68: A PCGS MS-68 1942-D sold for $2,640 in July 2025, significantly below the PCGS Price Guide value of $7,250 and NGC value of $4,000. This result suggests the MS-68 market for Denver quarters is thin, with wide price variation depending on strike quality and eye appeal.

1942 Proof PR-69: The finest-known 1942 Proof quarter, graded PCGS PR-69, sold for $16,800 at Heritage Auctions in January 2020. This coin represents the ultimate 1942 proof and is likely the single finest example in existence. No PR-70 examples are known.

1942-D DDO FS-101 MS-64: The most famous variety of 1942, a PCGS MS-64 1942-D Doubled Die Obverse sold for $6,463 at Heritage Auctions in January 2013. This result confirms the variety's status as a major collectible issue that commands four-figure prices even in MS-64 grade.

1942-D DDR FS-801 MS-66: A PCGS MS-66 example of the 1942-D Doubled Die Reverse sold for $5,750 at Heritage Auctions in May 2005. This variety remains highly sought and valuable in Mint State grades.

Market trends indicate steady demand for high-grade 1942 quarters, particularly the 1942-S in MS-67 and higher. Die varieties continue to trade actively, with the 1942-D DDO commanding premiums across all grades. The proof market remains stable, with PR-65 to PR-67 examples readily available, while PR-68 and PR-69 coins are exceptionally rare.

Frequently Asked Questions

Research Methodology and Sources

This guide synthesizes data from authoritative numismatic sources to provide accurate, current valuations and historical context for the 1942 Washington Quarter. Price data reflects retail estimates from the PCGS Price Guide and NGC Coin Explorer as of November 2025, supplemented by recent auction results from Heritage Auctions, GreatCollections, and Stack's Bowers.

Mintage figures, variety attributions, and technical specifications are sourced from PCGS CoinFacts, NGC Coin Explorer, VarietyVista, and the Cherrypicker's Guide variety references. Historical production information and wartime context are derived from contemporary mint documents and numismatic research publications.

Authentication and grading guidance follows established standards from PCGS and NGC grading services. Market analysis reflects documented auction records and dealer transactions from 2013-2025.

Key references include: PCGS CoinFacts 1942 Washington Quarter, NGC Coin Explorer Washington Quarters 1942, VarietyVista 1942 Die Varieties, and published auction archives from Heritage Auctions and GreatCollections.