1958 Washington Quarter Value: Worth $9 to $19,555
Complete 1958 Washington Quarter value guide. Business strikes worth $9-$19,555, proofs $8-$8,519. Covers 1958-P, 1958-D, Type B Reverse, errors, and cameo designations.
The 1958 Washington Quarter is worth $9 to $19,555 depending on mint, grade, and designation.
- Circulated (G-4 to AU-58): $9.25 – $11.75 (bullion value)
- Uncirculated Business Strikes: $18 – $5,250 (MS-60 to MS-68)
- Proof Brilliant: $8 – $690 (PR-60 to PR-69★)
- Proof Deep Cameo: $408 – $8,519 (PR-67 to PR-69 DCAM)
- Top specimen: $19,555 (1958-D MS-68)
The 1958-P was hoarded due to low mintage, making high-grade examples common. The 1958-D is a premier condition rarity despite massive mintage.
What's Your 1958 Quarter Worth?
Select your coin's mint mark and condition to get a value estimate.
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1958 Washington Quarter: Overview
The 1958 Washington Quarter represents a fascinating chapter in U.S. coinage, produced during the "Eisenhower Recession" that dramatically reduced Philadelphia's output to just 6.36 million pieces—the second-lowest mintage in the silver series. This scarcity was immediately recognized by collectors, leading to widespread hoarding of uncirculated examples.
The 1958 Washington Quarter features John Flanagan's classic design with 90% silver composition
Today's market presents a compelling paradox: the low-mintage 1958-P is relatively common in mint state due to hoarding (MS-68 record: $4,560), while the high-mintage 1958-D is a significant condition rarity due to poor preservation and weak strikes (MS-68 record: $19,555). With silver's elevated spot price pushing melt value to approximately $8.68, all circulated grades now trade as bullion. For proof collectors, the Deep Cameo designation commands premiums exceeding 40 times the value of standard brilliant proofs.
How to Identify Your 1958 Washington Quarter
All 1958 Washington Quarters share John Flanagan's design used from 1932 to 1964. The obverse features a left-facing bust of George Washington, with "LIBERTY" along the top periphery, "IN GOD WE TRUST" in the left field, and the date "1958" at the bottom. The reverse displays a heraldic eagle with outstretched wings perched on a bundle of arrows and an olive branch, with inscriptions "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" and "E PLURIBUS UNUM" above, and "QUARTER DOLLAR" below.
Mint Mark Identification
The mint mark determines which facility struck your coin:
The D mint mark appears on the reverse, centered below the olive wreath and above the 'R' in QUARTER
- 1958 (Philadelphia): No mint mark. These coins show no letter on the reverse.
- 1958-D (Denver): A small "D" appears on the reverse, centered below the olive wreath and above the "R" in "QUARTER".
- 1958 Proof (Philadelphia): No mint mark. Distinguished by mirror-like fields and frosted devices. Struck specifically for collectors in proof sets.
Business Strike vs. Proof
Business strikes have a satin-like luster with flow lines visible under magnification, produced for circulation. Proof coins exhibit mirror-like fields with varying degrees of device frosting (Brilliant, Cameo, or Deep Cameo), struck with specially polished dies for collectors.
1958 Washington Quarter Value Guide
💡 Important: Melt Value Floor
As of November 2025, the silver melt value of 1958 quarters is approximately $8.68 (based on 0.1808 troy oz at ~$48/oz spot price). All circulated grades (G-4 through AU-58) are priced at melt value plus a minimal dealer premium.
1958 (Philadelphia) Business Strike
With a mintage of only 6,360,000, the 1958-P is the second-lowest mintage Philadelphia Washington Quarter of the silver series. Collectors recognized this scarcity at the time, leading to widespread hoarding of uncirculated rolls and bags. Consequently, mint state examples are relatively common through MS-66, with PCGS estimating 25,000 coins surviving in MS-65 or better. The coin becomes conditionally scarce only at MS-67+ and is a true rarity in MS-68.
| Grade | Value |
|---|---|
| G-4 to AU-58 | $9.25 – $11.75 |
| MS-60 | $18 – $25 |
| MS-63 | $30 – $45 |
| MS-65 | $60 – $85 |
| MS-66 | $70 – $124 |
| MS-67 | $40 – $336 |
| MS-67+ | $400 – $500 |
| MS-68 | up to $5,250 |
Auction Record: $4,560 for MS-68 (Heritage Auctions, July 2025)
1958-D (Denver) Business Strike
Despite a massive mintage of 78,124,900—twelve times greater than Philadelphia—the 1958-D presents a classic condition rarity. Unlike its Philadelphia counterpart, this issue was not considered rare and went unpreserved by collectors. Production quality at Denver was often poor, with weak strikes and heavy bag marks common. PCGS estimates only 13,500 examples survive in MS-65 or better, making high-grade specimens significantly scarcer and more valuable than comparable 1958-P coins.
| Grade | Value |
|---|---|
| G-4 to AU-58 | $9.25 – $11.75 |
| MS-60 | $14 – $20 |
| MS-63 | $22 – $35 |
| MS-65 | $29 – $60 |
| MS-66 | $43 – $59 |
| MS-67 | $105 – $312 |
| MS-68 | up to $19,555 |
Auction Record: $19,555 for MS-68 (Bowers & Merena, July 2008)
1958 Proof (Brilliant)
Struck at Philadelphia with a mintage of 875,652, these coins were sold to collectors in proof sets. The standard "Brilliant" finish features mirrored fields with minimal device frosting. Values are modest for this common finish, with premiums increasing primarily at the PR-69 level.
| Grade | Value |
|---|---|
| PR-60 | $8.00 – $9.50 |
| PR-63 | $11 – $16 |
| PR-65 | $24 |
| PR-67 | $32 |
| PR-68 | $60 |
| PR-69 | $190 |
| PR-69★ | $690 |
1958 Proof Cameo (CAM)
Cameo proofs exhibit noticeable frost on Washington's profile and the eagle, creating moderate contrast against the mirrored fields. These are scarcer than brilliant proofs and command substantial premiums, especially in PR-69.
| Grade | Value |
|---|---|
| PR-67 CAM | $45 – $58 |
| PR-68 CAM | $69 – $77 |
| PR-69 CAM | $336 – $408 |
Recent Auction: $51 for PR-67 CAM (PCGS Price Guide, 2020)
1958 Proof Deep Cameo (DCAM)
Proof designation comparison: Brilliant (standard), Cameo (frosted devices), Deep Cameo (intense frost)
Deep Cameo (also called Ultra Cameo) represents the pinnacle of proof quality, with intense, deep, continuous frost on both sides creating dramatic contrast. The population in PR-69 DCAM is exceptionally low (PCGS: 5 as of 2017), making these coins rare and highly valuable—worth over 40 times more than brilliant PR-69 examples.
| Grade | Value |
|---|---|
| PR-67 DCAM | $408 |
| PR-68 DCAM | $1,704 |
| PR-69 DCAM | $7,200 – $8,519 |
Auction Records: $8,518.75 (April 2017), $7,200 (June 2023) (Heritage Auctions)
Grading Your 1958 Washington Quarter
Accurate grading determines value. For 1958 silver quarters, the transition from circulated to uncirculated grades—and the quality within mint state—makes significant price differences. Understanding key wear points and luster characteristics is essential.
Grade comparison illustrating key wear points: hair details and eagle feathers
Key Wear Points
On the obverse, wear first appears as flattening of: (1) the hair curls over Washington's ear, and (2) the central hair details on the top of his head. On the reverse, check: (1) the highest points of the eagle's breast feathers, and (2) the eagle's legs. A coin showing no trace of wear on these high points qualifies as Uncirculated (MS-60 minimum).
Circulated Grades
Good-4 (G-4): Heavy wear. Date barely sharp. Washington's profile flattened with hair details merged. Eagle's feathers worn smooth. All 1958 quarters in circulated grades trade at bullion value ($9.25–$11.75) due to elevated silver prices.
Very Fine-20 (VF-20): Moderate wear. Hair curls over ear show separation but are worn. Hair on top of head shows partial detail. Eagle's breast feathers partially defined but worn on high points.
About Uncirculated-58 (AU-58): Slight wear on highest points. Most hair details sharp. Nearly full eagle feather detail. Original luster may be present in protected areas.
Primary wear points: hair curls over ear and top of head (obverse); eagle's breast and legs (reverse)
Mint State Grades
MS-60 to MS-62: No wear, but numerous bag marks and contact marks visible. Luster may be dull or impaired. Strike quality variable.
MS-63 to MS-64: Light to moderate contact marks. Good luster. Acceptable strike for the grade. Eye appeal average to above average.
MS-65 to MS-66: Few contact marks, mostly in less conspicuous areas. Strong luster with good strike. Above-average to excellent eye appeal. MS-66 examples approach premium quality.
MS-67 to MS-67+: Very few small contact marks. Exceptional luster. Sharp strike. Outstanding eye appeal. For 1958-P, still obtainable but pricey. For 1958-D, condition rarity begins here.
MS-68: Virtually mark-free surfaces. Blazing luster. Full strike. Superb eye appeal. Extremely rare for both mints, with 1958-D being the more valuable due to condition rarity.
The Cartwheel Effect
Uncirculated silver quarters exhibit a diagnostic "cartwheel" or "windmill" effect—microscopic radial flow lines created during striking that catch light and appear to rotate when the coin is tilted. This is the single most important indicator of mint state condition. Cleaned coins lose this effect and appear dull despite being shiny.
1958 Washington Quarter Die Varieties
Die varieties occur during the die production process, resulting in distinctive features that can significantly increase a coin's value. The 1958 Washington Quarter series includes several collectible varieties, with the Type B Reverse being the most significant and valuable.
1958 (P) Type B Reverse (FS-901)
This is the premier variety for 1958 and a popular "cherrypicker" find. It occurred when a reverse die intended for proof coinage (Type B) was mistakenly used to strike circulating business strike coins. The variety commands substantial premiums, especially in high grades.
Type B Reverse diagnostics: separated ES in STATES, leaf touching A in DOLLAR, extended leaf at arrows
Diagnostic Features:
- "ES" in STATES: The "E" and "S" are clearly separated at their bases. On the common Type A reverse, they are very close or touching.
- Leaf at "A" in DOLLAR: A leaf tip clearly and solidly joins the top-left of the "A" in "DOLLAR".
- Leaf at Arrows: A pointed leaf tip extends upward beyond the arrow points.
- Overall Appearance: The strike often appears "prooflike" with sharper feather details than a standard business strike.
| Grade | Value |
|---|---|
| MS-64 | $45 – $90 |
| MS-65 | $89 – $125 |
| MS-66 | $150 – $250+ |
| MS-67+ | $4,800 |
Auction Record: $4,800 for MS-67+ (Heritage Auctions, March 2019)
1958-D Repunched Mint Marks (RPMs)
In 1958, the "D" mint mark was manually punched into each working die, often resulting in misalignments and corrections that created RPMs. Two varieties are documented by CONECA and Variety Vista:
RPM-001 (D/D Northeast): A clear repunching with the secondary "D" visible to the northeast of the primary mint mark. RPM-002 (D/D Rotated CCW): A repunching where the secondary "D" shows counter-clockwise rotation.
These are minor but popular varieties. Raw uncirculated examples are offered in the $18–$20 range. The premium is minimal unless the coin is certified in a high mint state grade, where values can reach $35–$150+.
1958-D Doubled Die Reverse (DDR-001)
This is a Class II/VI (Distorted Hub/Tilted Hub) doubled die showing light spread and medium extra thickness on reverse lettering, including "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA," "E PLURIBUS UNUM," and "QUARTER DOLLAR." This is a minor variety with limited premium. An uncertified example was offered for $39. No reliable public pricing is available from major grading services.
1958 Doubled Die Obverse (DDO)
Minor DDOs are known for 1958, typically showing minor doubling on "IN GOD WE TRUST" or "LIBERTY." Estimated value ranges from $100 to $600+. No major, high-value DDOs (such as an FS-101 listing) are widely recognized by PCGS or NGC for this date.
1958 Washington Quarter Mint Errors
Mint errors result from malfunctions during the striking process and can dramatically increase a coin's value. While varieties involve die production, errors occur at the press when coins are actually struck. For 1958 Washington Quarters, several error types are documented.
Major Struck Errors: Brockage
Rare 1958 Proof brockage error with obverse mirror image on reverse - sold for $12,337.50
A brockage occurs when a struck coin fails to eject from the press and is impressed into the next blank planchet, creating a mirror image of the design on the wrong side. Proof errors are exceptionally rare due to higher quality control standards at the minting facility.
Notable Sale: A 1958 Washington Quarter graded Proof 62 by PCGS, with a full first strike obverse brockage on the reverse, sold for $12,337.50 at a 2017 Heritage FUN auction. This represents a landmark error for the 1958 series.
Off-Center Strikes
Off-center strikes occur when the planchet is not properly centered between the dies during striking. The value depends on the percentage off-center and whether the date and mint mark remain visible. Value Range: $30–$150+, with premium paid for strikes that are 40–60% off-center but retain a full date and mint mark.
Clipped Planchets
Clipped planchets result from incomplete blanks that were clipped during the blanking stage, before striking. The coin shows a missing section, typically along the edge. Value Range: $30–$150, depending on the size and location of the clip.
Broadstrikes
A broadstrike occurs when a coin is struck without the retaining collar, causing it to spread outward. The resulting coin appears abnormally wide and thin with a plain (unreeded) edge instead of the normal reeded edge. Value Range: Estimated $50–$150, similar to other major striking errors. No specific 1958 broadstrike values are available from authoritative sources.
Lamination Errors
Lamination errors occur when a flaw in the 90% silver planchet causes a piece of metal to flake, peel, or become detached from the surface. Value Range: These are generally minor errors with minimal value ($10–$20) unless the lamination is large, retained on the surface, or folds over the design, which can increase value significantly.
🔍 Authentication Tip
Major errors should be authenticated by PCGS or NGC. Counterfeit errors exist, particularly for high-value items like brockages. Third-party certification provides assurance and protects your investment.
Authentication and Common Alterations
While 1958 Washington Quarters are not primary targets for sophisticated counterfeiting—unlike key dates such as the 1932-D and 1932-S—the primary risk collectors face is alteration, particularly cleaning or polishing. Understanding how to identify problem coins is essential to protecting your investment.
Original cartwheel luster (left) versus cleaned, dull appearance (right)
The most common alteration is cleaning, an attempt to make a circulated coin appear uncirculated by removing toning or perceived "dirt." This action destroys the coin's numismatic value. When a coin leaves the mint, the high pressure of striking creates microscopic, radial "flow lines" on the surface. These flow lines produce the diagnostic "cartwheel effect"—when the coin is rotated under a single light source, these lines catch the light and create a rotating windmill or cartwheel pattern across the fields.
Cleaning—whether with abrasive polish or chemical "dips"—removes this microscopic top layer of metal and destroys the flow lines. A cleaned coin may appear "shiny," but it will have a dull, dead, or "processed" look and will not exhibit the vibrant, rotating cartwheel luster of an original uncirculated coin. Abrasive cleaning (polishing) leaves microscopic parallel scratches called "hairlines" on the surface, especially visible in the flat fields under magnification.
Cleaned, scratched, or corroded coins are classified as "problem coins." They cannot receive a standard numerical grade from PCGS or NGC and are relegated to their intrinsic silver melt value, regardless of how sharp the design details may appear. For collectors, the lesson is clear: never clean your coins. Originality is paramount in numismatics, and even natural toning—if it doesn't obscure the design—is preferable to any form of cleaning.
⚠️ Never Clean Your Coins
Cleaning destroys the microscopic surface structure that creates mint luster. Even if a coin appears "dull" or toned, cleaning will eliminate its numismatic value. If you're uncertain about a coin's condition, consult a professional dealer or grading service before taking any action.
Preserving Your 1958 Washington Quarters
Proper storage and handling are essential to maintaining your 1958 Washington Quarter's condition and value. Silver is reactive to environmental factors, and improper care can lead to toning, spotting, or corrosion that reduces grade and market appeal.
Store your coins in a stable, climate-controlled environment. Avoid areas with high humidity, which can accelerate toning and potentially lead to spotting or corrosion. Keep coins away from sulfur-containing materials such as old paper, certain types of wood, rubber bands, and PVC-containing plastic flips or holders. Sulfur exposure causes silver to tone rapidly, and PVC can leave green residue that damages the coin's surface.
High-grade coins (MS-65 and above, or any proof coins) should be stored in inert, archival-quality holders. Options include hard plastic capsules, PCGS or NGC certified holders (slabs), or non-PVC flips made from Mylar or other stable plastics. For certified coins, the slab provides excellent protection—keep them in their holders. Handle all coins only by their edges, never touching the obverse or reverse surfaces. Skin oils contain acids and salts that can leave permanent fingerprints and cause spotting over time.
For long-term storage, consider a safe deposit box or home safe in a climate-controlled area. Avoid attics, basements, or other locations with temperature and humidity fluctuations. If you store coins at home, silica gel packets can help control humidity, but ensure they don't directly contact the coins. With proper care, your 1958 Washington Quarters will maintain their condition and value for generations.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is my 1958 Washington Quarter worth?
Circulated 1958 quarters (G-4 through AU-58) are worth $9.25–$11.75, trading at silver melt value. Uncirculated business strikes range from $18 (MS-60) to $5,250 (MS-68 for 1958-P) or $19,555 (MS-68 for 1958-D). Proof coins range from $8 (PR-60 Brilliant) to $8,519 (PR-69 Deep Cameo). Value depends on mint mark, grade, strike type, and proof designation.
How do I identify the mint mark on a 1958 quarter?
The mint mark appears on the reverse (back) of the coin, centered below the olive wreath and above the "R" in "QUARTER." A "D" indicates Denver Mint. No mint mark means Philadelphia Mint. Proof coins were struck at Philadelphia and also show no mint mark, but are distinguished by mirror-like fields and superior strike quality.
Why is the 1958-D worth more than the 1958-P in high grades?
Despite having a mintage twelve times larger (78.1 million vs 6.4 million), the 1958-D is a significant condition rarity. The low-mintage 1958-P was widely hoarded by collectors, preserving many mint state examples. The 1958-D was not considered rare and went unpreserved. Additionally, Denver's production quality was poor, with weak strikes and heavy bag marks common. PCGS estimates only 13,500 1958-D quarters survive in MS-65 or better, compared to 25,000 for the 1958-P.
What is the Type B Reverse variety, and how much is it worth?
The Type B Reverse (FS-901) is a significant die variety where a reverse die intended for proof coinage was mistakenly used to strike business strike coins. It's identified by: (1) clear separation between "E" and "S" in STATES, (2) a leaf tip joining the "A" in DOLLAR, and (3) a pointed leaf extending beyond the arrow points. Values range from $45–$90 (MS-64) to $4,800 (MS-67+). This is a popular "cherrypicker" variety.
Should I get my 1958 quarter professionally graded?
Professional grading is recommended if: (1) your coin appears to be MS-65 or better, (2) it's a proof coin in PR-67 or better condition, (3) you've identified a die variety like the Type B Reverse, or (4) you suspect a mint error. Grading costs $20–$50+ per coin. For common circulated examples trading at melt value, certification costs exceed the coin's value. High-grade examples, varieties, and errors benefit significantly from third-party authentication.
What's the difference between Brilliant, Cameo, and Deep Cameo proofs?
These designations describe the level of device frosting on proof coins. Brilliant proofs have standard mirrored fields with minimal frosting. Cameo (CAM) proofs exhibit noticeable frosting on devices creating moderate contrast. Deep Cameo (DCAM) or Ultra Cameo proofs show intense, deep, continuous frost on both sides with dramatic contrast. Deep Cameo coins are the rarest and most valuable—a PR-69 DCAM can be worth over 40 times more than a PR-69 Brilliant.
How should I store and handle my silver quarters?
Store coins in a stable, climate-controlled environment away from humidity and sulfur-containing materials (old paper, certain woods, PVC plastics). Use inert holders like hard plastic capsules or non-PVC flips for uncertified coins. Always handle coins by their edges, never touching the surfaces. Skin oils can leave permanent damage. High-grade coins should remain in certified holders if already slabbed. Never clean your coins—cleaning destroys original luster and numismatic value.
Can a circulated 1958 quarter be worth more than melt value?
Currently, no. With silver's elevated spot price pushing melt value to approximately $8.68, all circulated 1958 quarters (grades G-4 through AU-58) trade at bullion value plus a minimal dealer premium ($9.25–$11.75). To exceed melt value significantly, a coin must be either: (1) uncirculated (MS-60 or better), (2) a certified proof, (3) a recognized die variety, or (4) a mint error. Circulated examples have no collectible premium above silver content.
How do I tell if my quarter has been cleaned?
Cleaned coins lack the original "cartwheel" luster—microscopic flow lines that create a rotating windmill effect when tilted under light. Cleaned coins appear dull, lifeless, or have a "processed" look despite being shiny. Look for hairline scratches in the fields (from abrasive cleaning) or an unnatural, uniform brightness. If the coin's appearance seems too bright or the surfaces look disturbed under magnification, it may be cleaned. Original uncirculated coins have a distinctive, vibrant luster that's impossible to replicate after cleaning.
Are 1958 quarters made of real silver?
Yes. All 1958 Washington Quarters—business strikes and proofs from both Philadelphia and Denver—are composed of 90% silver and 10% copper. Each coin contains 0.1808 troy ounces of pure silver (ASW). This is true for all Washington Quarters dated 1932–1964. Starting in 1965, the composition changed to copper-nickel clad with no silver content.
Recent Auction Results
Auction records provide valuable market benchmarks for 1958 Washington Quarters, particularly for high-grade examples and rare varieties. These results reflect strong collector demand for condition rarities and exceptional proof coins.
The highest auction record for a 1958 Washington Quarter belongs to a 1958-D MS-68, which realized $19,555 at a Bowers & Merena auction in July 2008. This exceptional result underscores the 1958-D's status as a premier condition rarity—despite a mintage of 78.1 million, surviving gem examples are exceptionally scarce due to poor preservation and weak Denver strikes.
For the Philadelphia issue, a 1958-P MS-68 sold for $4,560 at Heritage Auctions in July 2025. While significant, this price is less than a quarter of the 1958-D record, reflecting the 1958-P's greater availability in top grades due to collector hoarding at the time of issue.
Among proof coins, Deep Cameo examples command extraordinary premiums. A 1958 PR-69 DCAM sold for $8,518.75 at Heritage Auctions in April 2017, and another realized $7,200 in June 2023. The low population of Deep Cameo proofs in PR-69 (only 5 certified by PCGS as of 2017) drives these exceptional prices, representing more than 40 times the value of standard brilliant PR-69 examples.
The most remarkable error sale is a 1958 Proof brockage graded PR-62 by PCGS, which sold for $12,337.50 at a 2017 Heritage FUN auction. This coin featured a full first-strike obverse brockage on the reverse—an exceptionally rare mint error for proof coinage due to stringent quality control at the Philadelphia facility.
These auction results demonstrate that while most 1958 quarters trade near melt value, exceptional pieces in top grades, with rare designations, or featuring significant errors can command substantial premiums in today's market.
Price Guide Methodology
This comprehensive value guide synthesizes data from multiple authoritative numismatic sources, including PCGS CoinFacts, NGC Coin Explorer, Heritage Auctions, and specialized variety resources from CONECA and Variety Vista. Prices reflect actual market transactions, auction records, and retail dealer listings compiled as of November 2025.
All circulated grade values ($9.25–$11.75) are based on current silver melt value calculations using spot silver prices in the range of $48.00–$48.84 per troy ounce. Mint state and proof values are derived from a combination of grading service price guides, recent auction realizations, and dealer retail listings. Auction records cited include the sale date, auction house, and realized price to provide transparent market benchmarks.
The silver market is volatile. Melt values fluctuate daily based on spot silver prices. Numismatic premiums for high-grade coins, rare varieties, and proof designations also vary based on market demand, population reports, and collector interest. Prices in this guide represent typical market ranges and may not reflect every transaction. For significant purchases or sales, consult current auction results and multiple dealer quotes.
Key Sources:PCGS CoinFacts, NGC Coin Explorer, CoinWeek, CONECA, Variety Vista, and Heritage Auctions price archives.
