1991 Washington Quarter Value Guide (P, D, S Mints)
1991 Washington Quarter values range from $0.30 to $1,950. MS-67 1991-D quarters are rare conditional treasures. Complete price guide for all mints with grading tips.
The 1991 Washington Quarter is worth $0.30 to $1,950+ depending on mint mark and condition.
- Circulated (G-4 to AU-58): $0.30 – $0.85
- Uncirculated (MS-65): $7 – $25
- Top specimens (MS-67): $1,950 (1991-D PCGS)
- Proof coins (PR-69 DCAM): $20 – $25
The 1991-D quarter in MS-67 grade is the key conditional rarity of this series, with over 630 million coins minted but only a handful achieving gem preservation.
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1991 Washington Quarter: Overview and Market Summary
The 1991 Washington Quarter features John Flanagan's classic design on clad composition.
The 1991 Washington Quarter series consists of three distinct issues: business strikes from the Philadelphia (1991-P) and Denver (1991-D) Mints totaling over 1.2 billion coins, and a proof strike from the San Francisco Mint (1991-S) with a mintage of 2.8 million. All three issues share the modern clad composition mandated by the Coinage Act of 1965—an outer layer of 75% Copper and 25% Nickel bonded to a pure Copper core.
The market for 1991 Washington Quarters is defined by extreme conditional rarity. Circulated examples and low-to-mid Mint State grades (up to MS-65) are exceptionally common and carry minimal value. However, the 1991-D quarter graded MS-67 is a major Registry Set key, valued at $1,950 by PCGS due to the rarity of technically perfect specimens from mass production processes. The proof issue remains affordable even in perfect PR-70 Deep Cameo grade.
This guide covers identification, pricing across all grades and mints, grading diagnostics, authentication tips, mint errors, and preservation best practices for the 1991 Washington Quarter series.
How to Identify Your 1991 Washington Quarter
All 1991 Washington Quarters share the same obverse and reverse design created by sculptor John Flanagan. The obverse features a left-facing profile of George Washington, modeled after the 1786 bust by Jean-Antoine Houdon. Inscriptions include "LIBERTY," "IN GOD WE TRUST," and the date "1991." The reverse displays a stylized heraldic eagle with wings spread, perched on a bundle of arrows, with inscriptions "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA," "E PLURIBUS UNUM," and "QUARTER DOLLAR."
The mint mark (P, D, or S) appears to the right of Washington's ponytail, below the date.
Mint Mark Location: The mint mark is a small, raised letter on the obverse, located to the right of George Washington's ponytail, below the date. Look for "P" (Philadelphia), "D" (Denver), or "S" (San Francisco, proof strikes only). The mint mark is critical for determining value, as the 1991-D in top grades commands significantly higher prices than its Philadelphia counterpart.
Physical Specifications: All 1991 quarters measure 24.30 mm in diameter, weigh 5.67 grams, and feature a reeded edge. The clad composition results in a "silver" appearance, though the coin contains no precious metal. If you see a copper-colored core visible on the edge, this is normal for clad coins—the outer layer is bonded to a pure copper center.
Business Strike vs. Proof: Business strikes (P and D mints) were produced for circulation and display a satiny, "cartwheel" luster when uncirculated. Proof strikes (S mint) were made for collectors using polished dies and specially prepared planchets, resulting in mirror-like fields and frosted devices. All 1991-S quarters are proofs; no business strikes were produced at San Francisco for this year.
Composition Note: The U.S. Mint did not produce 90% silver proof quarters in 1991—that program began in 1992. All 1991-S proofs are clad composition, identical to the business strikes.
1991 Washington Quarter Price Guide by Mint and Grade
The value of 1991 Washington Quarters varies dramatically by mint mark, grade, and strike type. Circulated examples from all mints are worth minimal premiums over face value, while uncirculated specimens in top grades—particularly the 1991-D in MS-67—represent significant conditional rarities commanding four-figure prices.
1991-P Washington Quarter Values
The 1991-P Philadelphia issue has a mintage of 570,968,000 coins. PCGS analysis notes that examples in MS-66 condition and higher are "scarce and very tough to locate," creating a dramatic value jump at the top grades. The coin is very common in all circulated grades and in Mint State up to MS-65.
| Grade | Value Range |
|---|---|
| G-4 | $0.30 |
| VF-20 | $0.50 |
| AU-58 | $0.85 |
| MS-60 | $1 |
| MS-63 | $4 – $8 |
| MS-64 | $10 – $15 |
| MS-65 | $15 – $25 |
| MS-66 | $30 – $70 |
| MS-67 | $115 – $850 |
A significant value divergence exists at the MS-67 level. While NGC lists a value of $115, a PCGS MS-67 example sold for $845.75 at a GreatCollections auction, aligning with PCGS's scarcity assessment for this grade.
Grade comparison reveals why MS-67 examples command dramatic premiums—near-perfect surfaces are exceptionally rare.
1991-D Washington Quarter Values
The 1991-D Denver issue is the key conditional rarity of the year and a major bottleneck for modern clad Washington Quarter Registry Sets. With a mintage of 630,966,693 coins, it is common through MS-65, but PCGS notes it is "scarce" in MS-66 and "rare" in MS-67 or higher. This rarity is reflected in the extreme price jump at the MS-67 level.
| Grade | PCGS Value | NGC Value |
|---|---|---|
| G-4 | $0.30 | $0.30 |
| VF-20 | $0.50 | $0.50 |
| AU-58 | $0.85 | $0.85 |
| MS-60 to MS-63 | $1 – $5 | $1 – $5 |
| MS-64 | $5 – $12 | $5 – $12 |
| MS-65 | $7 – $15 | $7 – $15 |
| MS-66 | $90 | ~$90 |
| MS-67 | $1,950 | $665 |
The significant divergence between PCGS ($1,950) and NGC ($665) values at MS-67 reflects different market assessments. The PCGS value is supported by a PCGS MS-67 auction at Heritage Auctions in June 2019 for $1,680 and a low population count (only 4 coins graded MS-67 by PCGS as of April 2019, with 0 graded finer).
1991-S Proof Quarter Values
The 1991-S proof issue has a mintage of 2,867,787 coins and is a very high-mintage, common proof. PCGS analysis notes that "Even PR70 Deep Cameo examples are very affordable for most collectors." Values vary based on numerical grade (PR-67 through PR-70) and the level of contrast between frosted devices and mirror fields.
Proof Designations Explained:
- PR (Standard Proof): A proof finish with little or no frost/mirror contrast
- CAM (Cameo): A proof with moderate contrast between frosted devices and mirror fields
- DCAM (Deep Cameo) / UC (Ultra Cameo): The highest designation, featuring deeply frosted devices and highly reflective, mirror-like fields
| Grade | PR (Standard) | CAM (Cameo) | DCAM / Ultra Cameo |
|---|---|---|---|
| PR-67 | ~$10 | ~$12 | ~$15 |
| PR-68 | ~$12 | ~$15 | ~$18 |
| PR-69 | ~$12 | ~$15 | $20 – $25 |
| PR-70 | N/A | ~$75 | $30 – $45 |
Recent sales demonstrate the proof's affordability: PCGS PR-70 DCAM examples have sold for $135, $75, and as low as $30 in recent years. A 2013 auction record of $558 for a PCGS PR-70 DCAM is now considered an obsolete outlier. The current market value for a PR-69 is often at or below the cost of the certification fee.
Grading the 1991 Washington Quarter
For 1991 Washington Quarters, grade is the single most important value factor—particularly for business strikes. Understanding the key diagnostic areas where wear and contact marks appear is essential for accurately assessing a coin's grade and value.
Check Washington's cheek and hair for wear on the obverse, and the eagle's breast on the reverse.
Obverse High Points: The first signs of wear on a 1991 Washington Quarter appear on Washington's cheek and the hair immediately surrounding his ear. In circulated grades (VF-20, EF-40), these areas will appear flat, dull, or show a color change where the metal has been worn smooth. In Mint State grades, professional graders examine these same areas for microscopic contact marks, abrasions, and "hairlines" that differentiate a common MS-65 from a rare MS-67. The broad, open obverse field to the left of Washington's portrait is also a critical area for spotting marks.
Reverse High Points: On the reverse, the first signs of wear appear on the eagle's breast and the upper portions of its legs. These raised areas are vulnerable to both circulation wear and contact marks from the minting and bagging process. In high Mint State grades (MS-66 and above), even a single noticeable mark on the eagle's breast can prevent a coin from achieving top-grade status.
Circulated Grades (Good-4 through About Uncirculated-58): In these grades, value differences are minimal for 1991 quarters—most circulated examples trade for $0.30 to $0.85 regardless of specific grade. Wear is clearly visible on the high points, and the overall surfaces show evidence of handling. The luster is gone or significantly diminished in circulated grades.
Mint State Grades (MS-60 through MS-67): This is where grading nuances become critical for value. An MS-60 coin shows no wear but has numerous contact marks and poor eye appeal (value: $1-$3). An MS-65 coin (Gem Uncirculated) displays minor contact marks visible under magnification but maintains strong eye appeal and original luster (value: $7-$25). An MS-67 coin is technically near-perfect—contact marks are minimal or absent, surfaces are pristine, and the coin displays full, original cartwheel luster. For the 1991-D, this grade commands $1,950 due to its extreme rarity.
MS-67 examples are rare condition treasures—technically perfect specimens from a 630+ million mintage.
Strike Quality: While most 1991 quarters are well-struck, subtle differences exist. A full strike will show complete detail in Washington's hair curls and full feather definition on the eagle. A weak strike may show soft or incomplete details in these areas, which can affect eye appeal and grade. Strike quality is distinct from wear—a coin can be fully Mint State but still show weak strike characteristics from the original minting.
Luster: Original mint luster is the hallmark of an uncirculated coin. On a 1991 business strike, this appears as a satiny "cartwheel" effect—a dancing, rotating band of light that moves across the coin's surface as you tilt it. Luster can be diminished by improper storage, cleaning, or environmental damage, even on coins that show no actual wear. A coin with impaired luster, even if technically uncirculated, will grade lower and carry reduced value.
Proof coins (left) feature mirror fields and frosted devices, while business strikes (right) show satiny mint luster.
Proof Grades (PR-67 through PR-70): Proof coins are graded on a similar 1-70 scale but are evaluated differently. Since proofs are struck multiple times with polished dies on specially prepared planchets, they start with pristine surfaces. Grading focuses on any post-strike defects: hairlines (fine scratches from handling or improper storage), spots, haze, or toning. A PR-69 proof has one or two minor imperfections visible under magnification. A PR-70 proof is technically perfect—no flaws visible even under 5x magnification. The cameo contrast (frosted devices vs. mirror fields) is a separate designation that affects value but not the numerical grade.
1991 Washington Quarter Mint Errors and Values
While 1991 is a "clean" year for die varieties—no major doubled dies are documented by authoritative attribution services—the year is known for producing valuable mint errors. These errors occur during the planchet preparation or striking process and can add significant value to an otherwise common coin. One unspecified 1991 quarter error sold at a Heritage auction for $24,150, demonstrating the potential value of dramatic errors.
Dramatic mint errors like off-center strikes and missing clad layers can be worth hundreds of dollars.
Off-Center Strikes
An off-center strike occurs when the planchet is not properly centered between the dies during the striking process, leaving a portion of the coin blank (unstruck). The value of an off-center strike is primarily determined by the percentage the coin is off-center and whether the date and mint mark remain visible.
Identification: One side of the design will be noticeably shifted toward the edge, with a corresponding blank area on the opposite side. The rim will be incomplete on the off-center portion.
Value Factors: Minor shifts (1-4% off-center) are relatively common and add little value. As the percentage increases, rarity and value rise significantly. The most valuable off-center strikes show substantial misalignment (20-50% or more) while retaining full date and mint mark visibility.
Value Range:
- 5-10% Off-Center: $25 – $50
- 20-50% Off-Center (Date & Mint Visible): $75 – $150
- Greater than 50% Off-Center (Date & Mint Visible): $100 – $200+
A 1991-D quarter struck 5% off-center, graded ANACS MS-64, was auctioned at GreatCollections.
Missing Clad Layer
This error occurs when the planchet was missing its entire obverse or reverse clad layer (the 75% Copper / 25% Nickel outer layer) before the strike. One side of the coin will show the exposed copper core.
Identification: One side has a normal "silver" clad appearance, while the other displays a distinct copper-red color. The coin will also be significantly underweight compared to the standard 5.67 grams, as it is missing approximately 1/3 of its total metal content.
Value Range: $150 – $400. These errors are scarce but not extremely rare, as they can occur in small quantities when clad bonding fails during planchet production.
Clipped Planchet
A clipped planchet error occurs when the planchet-making machine "blanks" (punches out) an incomplete coin from the metal strip. This typically happens when a second punch overlaps the area where a previous blank was removed.
Identification: A curved "clip" missing from the coin's rim is most common. Less frequently, a straight "clip" can occur if the blank was punched near the edge of the metal strip. The missing area can range from a small notch to 25% or more of the coin.
Value Range:
- Minor "Rim Clip": $5 – $10
- Major "Curved Clip" (10-25% of coin missing): $30 – $75
Improper Annealing ("Black Beauty")
This error results when a planchet is improperly heated (annealed) before striking. The incorrect heat treatment causes the planchet's surface to oxidize, resulting in a dark or "black" finish that persists after the coin is struck.
Identification: The coin is fully struck with all design details present, but the surface has a dark, often "sooty" black finish instead of the normal silver-colored appearance. This is distinct from post-mint environmental damage or toning—the black color was present when the coin left the mint.
Value Range: $20 – $120. A 1991-D example was offered on eBay for $119.99.
⚠️ Beware of "Doubled Die" Misattributions
Online marketplaces frequently list 1991 Washington Quarters advertised as "Double Die," "DDO," or "DDR" varieties. These are almost universally misattributions of common machine doubling, die deterioration, or normal die-stage characteristics. Authoritative sources—NGC VarietyPlus, PCGS CoinFacts, and Variety Vista (CONECA)—do not recognize any major, valuable die varieties for 1991. Machine doubling (a flat, shelf-like appearance) is a common mint-day anomaly that carries no numismatic premium. If you believe you have a significant variety, have it authenticated by a reputable third-party grading service before assuming value.
Authentication and Identifying Problem Coins
Counterfeiting is not a significant issue for common-date 1991 Washington Quarters in typical circulated or lower Mint State grades—the face value and modest numismatic premiums make them unattractive targets for counterfeiters. However, as values increase for top-grade MS-67 business strikes and for major mint errors, the risk of encountering fakes or altered coins rises. Additionally, cleaned or damaged coins that appear uncirculated can deceive inexperienced collectors.
Cleaned coins show fine parallel scratches (hairlines) and lack the natural cartwheel luster of original coins.
When to Buy Certified: For high-value purchases—particularly any coin priced above $100, such as a 1991-D in MS-66 or MS-67, or a significant mint error—purchase only coins certified by PCGS or NGC. These third-party grading services authenticate the coin, verify its grade, and encapsulate it in a tamper-evident holder ("slab"). This protects you from counterfeits, overgraded coins, and problem coins that have been cleaned or artificially enhanced.
Identifying Cleaned Coins: Cleaning is the most common problem that destroys a coin's numismatic value. A cleaned coin may appear "shiny" or "improved" to the untrained eye, but professional graders immediately identify cleaning through telltale diagnostics. Cleaned coins are not considered collectible grade, and their value is unpredictable—often worth only melt value or face value regardless of date or original grade. Key indicators include:
Hairlines: Fine, parallel scratches visible on the coin's surface, often running in a single direction. These are caused by wiping the coin with a cloth, tissue, or other abrasive material. On proof coins, hairlines are especially visible in the mirror-like fields. Even "light" cleaning creates permanent scratches that cannot be removed.
Altered or "Dead" Luster: An original uncirculated coin displays a distinctive "cartwheel" effect—a rotating band of luster that moves across the surface as you tilt the coin under a light. A cleaned coin loses this natural luster. The surface may appear bright and reflective but will have a flat, "dead" appearance lacking the three-dimensional depth of original luster. Over-polished coins may look unnaturally shiny.
Unnatural Toning Patterns: Chemical cleaning ("dipping") can leave unnatural toning patterns. Look for splotchy, uneven toning or toning that remains only in the recessed areas (around letters and design elements) while the open fields are stark white. Natural toning develops gradually and evenly over time, often with subtle color gradations. Artificial toning from harsh chemicals appears sudden, high-contrast, or oddly colored.
Spotting Spurious "Doubled Die" Claims: As detailed in the Mint Errors section, no major doubled die varieties are documented for 1991 Washington Quarters by authoritative sources. If you encounter a coin advertised as a "1991 Doubled Die," examine the "doubling" closely. Machine doubling—a common, worthless mint-day anomaly—appears as a flat, shelf-like secondary image. True hub doubling (the type that creates valuable varieties) shows rounded, raised doubling. When in doubt, submit the coin to NGC or PCGS for variety attribution rather than relying on your own assessment or online marketplace claims.
Preservation and Storage Best Practices
Proper handling and storage are essential for preserving both the grade and the value of your 1991 Washington Quarters. Even a single fingerprint or improper storage material can cause permanent damage, reducing a coin's grade and market value.
Handling: Always hold coins by their edges, never touching the obverse or reverse surfaces. The natural oils from human skin can cause permanent spots, discoloration, and corrosion over time. For handling high-value pieces—such as a 1991-D MS-67 or a PR-70 proof—use soft, lint-free cotton gloves. Even when wearing gloves, minimize handling and always work over a soft surface to prevent damage if the coin is dropped.
Storage Materials to Avoid: Never store coins in holders or flips containing Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC). Over time, PVC breaks down and releases acidic chemicals that leave a sticky, greenish residue ("green slime") on the coin's surface. This residue permanently damages the coin, often causing pitting and corrosion that cannot be reversed. Check all storage materials—if a flip or holder feels oily, has a strong chemical smell, or appears cloudy, it likely contains PVC and should be discarded.
Recommended Storage Materials: Use archival-safe, inert materials designed specifically for coin storage. Options include 2x2 Mylar flips (not vinyl), hard plastic capsules (such as AirTite holders), or archival-quality coin tubes. For certified coins in PCGS or NGC slabs, the coin is already protected in an inert, tamper-evident holder and requires no additional storage material—simply keep the slab in a stable environment.
Storage Environment: Store all coins in a cool, dry, and stable environment. Humidity and sharp temperature fluctuations are the primary causes of toning, corrosion, and environmental damage. Ideal conditions include temperatures between 60-70°F (15-21°C) and relative humidity below 50%. The use of silica gel packs to control humidity in your storage area is recommended, especially in humid climates. Avoid storing coins in basements (prone to dampness), attics (temperature extremes), or near heating/cooling vents.
Special Considerations for Proof Coins: Proof coins, including the 1991-S, are exceptionally sensitive to handling and environmental factors. Their mirror-like fields show every fingerprint, hairline scratch, and spot of corrosion. The best practice is to keep proof coins in their original U.S. Mint lens packaging if unopened, or in a modern, sealed, hard-plastic holder (slab) if certified. Never remove a proof coin from its protective holder unless absolutely necessary, and only do so while wearing gloves in a controlled environment.
Recent Auction Results for 1991 Washington Quarters
Auction records provide valuable market insights for 1991 Washington Quarters, particularly for top-grade business strikes and significant mint errors. The following results demonstrate both the conditional rarity of MS-67 specimens and the volatility of the 1991-S proof market.
1991-D MS-67 (Business Strike): A PCGS-certified MS-67 example realized $1,680 at Heritage Auctions in June 2019. This price reflects the coin's status as a major Registry Set key, with only 4 examples graded MS-67 by PCGS and none graded finer at the time of the auction. The current PCGS Price Guide value of $1,950 is based on this and similar auction realizations.
1991-P MS-67 (Business Strike): A PCGS MS-67 1991-P quarter sold for $845.75 at a GreatCollections auction. This result significantly exceeds the NGC Price Guide value of $115 for the same grade, suggesting that the NGC pricing may lag behind current market demand for top-grade examples.
1991-S PR-70 DCAM (Proof): Recent auction results for perfect proof examples demonstrate the coin's affordability and high availability. Sales include $135, $75 (2014), and as low as $30 for PCGS PR-70 DCAM examples. A 2013 auction record of $558 for the same grade is now considered an obsolete outlier, likely reflecting a temporary market spike. Current retail offerings for PR-70 DCAM examples range from $25.95 to $45, confirming that even "perfect" 1991-S proofs are common and accessible.
1991 Mint Error (Unspecified): An unspecified 1991 Washington Quarter mint error realized $24,150 at a Heritage auction, as reported in a YouTube video analysis. While the specific error type was not detailed in available documentation, this price demonstrates the potential value of dramatic, certified mint errors from this series. Off-center strikes, missing clad layer errors, and other major errors can command significant premiums when properly authenticated and graded.
1991-D Off-Center Strike (5%): A 1991-D quarter struck 5% off-center at the K-8:00 position, graded ANACS MS-64, was auctioned at GreatCollections. This provides a market data point for minor off-center errors in the $25-$50 range.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is my 1991 Washington Quarter worth?
The value depends on mint mark, grade, and strike type. Circulated examples are worth $0.30 to $0.85. Uncirculated examples in MS-65 grade are worth $7 to $25. The key date is the 1991-D in MS-67, valued at $1,950 by PCGS. Proof coins (1991-S) are worth $10 to $75, with even perfect PR-70 DCAM examples affordable at $30-$45.
How do I identify the mint mark on my 1991 quarter?
The mint mark is a small, raised letter on the obverse (front), located to the right of George Washington's ponytail, below the date. Look for "P" (Philadelphia), "D" (Denver), or "S" (San Francisco, proof only). You may need a magnifying glass to see it clearly. The mint mark is critical for determining value—the 1991-D in top grades is significantly more valuable than the 1991-P.
Are there any valuable 1991 Washington Quarter varieties?
No major, widely-recognized die varieties (such as doubled dies) are documented for 1991 Washington Quarters by authoritative attribution services like NGC VarietyPlus, PCGS CoinFacts, or Variety Vista (CONECA). Many coins advertised online as "1991 Doubled Die" are misattributions of common machine doubling, which carries no premium. The real value in 1991 quarters comes from top grades (MS-67) and legitimate mint errors.
What makes the 1991-D quarter in MS-67 so valuable?
The 1991-D quarter has a massive mintage of over 630 million coins, but the vast majority acquired contact marks during production, bagging, and distribution. Finding a technically perfect MS-67 specimen—with pristine surfaces and full original luster—is extremely rare. PCGS has graded only 4 examples in MS-67 and none finer. This extreme conditional rarity makes it a key coin for Registry Set collectors, commanding $1,950 compared to just $7-$15 for an MS-65 example of the same coin.
Should I get my 1991 quarter professionally graded?
Professional grading by PCGS or NGC is only cost-effective for coins worth significantly more than the grading fee (typically $20-$40 per coin). For 1991 quarters, consider grading if you have: (1) a 1991-D that appears to be in MS-66 or MS-67 condition, (2) a 1991-P in MS-67, or (3) a significant mint error. Circulated coins and common Mint State examples (MS-60 to MS-65) are not worth the cost of certification.
How should I store my 1991 Washington Quarter?
Store coins in archival-safe, inert materials such as 2x2 Mylar flips, hard plastic capsules, or archival tubes. Never use holders containing PVC, which can damage coins. Keep coins in a cool, dry environment (60-70°F, humidity below 50%). Always handle coins by their edges, and use cotton gloves for high-value pieces. Proof coins are especially sensitive and should remain in their original U.S. Mint packaging or in certified slabs.
Is the 1991-S proof quarter made of silver?
No. All 1991-S proof quarters are clad composition (75% Copper-Nickel outer layer over pure Copper core), identical to the business strikes. The U.S. Mint did not begin producing 90% silver proof quarters until 1992. If someone is offering a "1991-S silver proof," it is either mislabeled or fraudulent.
What's the difference between a Cameo and Deep Cameo proof?
Both designations describe the level of contrast between the frosted devices (raised design elements) and the mirror-like fields (background) on a proof coin. A Cameo (CAM) proof shows moderate contrast. A Deep Cameo (DCAM), also called Ultra Cameo (UC) by NGC, displays the highest level of contrast—deeply frosted devices against brilliant mirror fields. Deep Cameo proofs are more visually appealing and command higher premiums, though for the common 1991-S, even DCAM examples remain affordable.
Can cleaning increase the value of my 1991 quarter?
No. Cleaning a coin almost always destroys its numismatic value, regardless of intent or method. Professional graders immediately identify cleaned coins through hairlines, altered luster, and unnatural surface appearance. Cleaned coins are not considered collectible grade and are worth significantly less than original, uncleaned examples—often only face value. Never clean a coin. If a coin is dirty, leave it as-is or consult a professional conservator (not a grading service).
Where can I sell my 1991 Washington Quarter?
For common circulated or low-grade Mint State examples, your best option is to spend them at face value or sell them in bulk to a local coin dealer for a small premium. For high-grade examples (MS-67, major mint errors), consider selling through a major auction house like Heritage Auctions, GreatCollections, or Stack's Bowers if the coin is certified by PCGS or NGC. Online marketplaces like eBay are also viable for certified coins, but be prepared to pay seller fees and provide accurate photos and descriptions.
Research Methodology and Sources
This analysis of 1991 Washington Quarter values is based on comprehensive research from authoritative numismatic sources, including current price guides, population reports, auction records, and expert commentary from leading third-party grading services.
Price Data: Values are derived from the PCGS CoinFacts Price Guide and the NGC Coin Explorer, both updated as of November 2025. These guides aggregate dealer wholesale/retail pricing, auction results, and market activity to provide real-time valuations.
Auction Records: Verified auction results are sourced from Heritage Auctions, GreatCollections, and PCGS Auction Prices Realized database. All auction prices cited include the date, auction house, and grade to ensure transparency and verifiability.
Variety Attribution: Information on die varieties (or the lack thereof for 1991) is confirmed through NGC VarietyPlus, PCGS CoinFacts variety listings, and Variety Vista (CONECA). The absence of documented varieties is explicitly stated by these authoritative sources.
Grading Standards: Grading diagnostics are based on NGC's official Washington Quarter grading guide and PCGS grading standards. These resources detail the specific wear points, luster characteristics, and strike features used by professional graders.
Technical Specifications: Composition, weight, diameter, and mintage figures are verified through PCGS CoinFacts and NGC Coin Explorer, which source data directly from U.S. Mint records.
Important Disclaimer: Coin values fluctuate based on market demand, collector trends, and economic conditions. Prices in this guide represent general market ranges as of November 2025 and should be used as estimates, not guarantees. Actual selling prices may vary based on the specific coin's eye appeal, strike quality, and market timing. For significant purchases or sales, consult multiple sources and consider professional appraisal.
