Own a Silver Washington Quarter – Minted Over a Half-Century Ago
The quarter featuring George Washington was first produced from an alloy made of 90% silver and 10% copper. These silver Washington Quarters were issued from 1932 to 1964. Each one is more than 60 years old and has been preserved for you to enjoy today.
In 1930, Congress established the Georg... more
Own a Silver Washington Quarter – Minted Over a Half-Century Ago
The quarter featuring George Washington was first produced from an alloy made of 90% silver and 10% copper. These silver Washington Quarters were issued from 1932 to 1964. Each one is more than 60 years old and has been preserved for you to enjoy today.
In 1930, Congress established the George Washington Bicentennial Committee to plan for celebrating the 200th birth anniversary of America’s first President. The committee sought the support of Congress for a special half dollar coin to be produced for the occasion. Before receiving approval for the new coin, they began a competition for its design. The image of Washington was to be based on the 1786 bust made by French sculptor Jean-Antoine Houdon. The Bicentennial Committee chose Laura Gardin Fraser’s designs for the expected half dollar coin, as well as for a commemorative medal.
Meanwhile, Congress began talks on issuing a Washington quarter, rather than a half dollar. The Standing Liberty quarter that was in use at the time had faced a number of criticisms during its production. The new Washington quarter would not just replace the existing coin for a year, but permanently. Legislation for the new coin was passed in March 1931.
Though the Bicentennial Committee had chosen Fraser’s design for a new Washington coin, Andrew Mellon, the Secretary of the Treasury selected the design of sculptor John Flanagan. Though the committee objected to Mellon’s choice, he remained firm. Flanagan made a few modifications to Houdon’s depiction of Washington. These included changing the shape of Washinton’s head and adding a roll of hair to the wig.
Production began on the new quarter, and it was released into circulation on August 1, 1932. Though it was in the midst of the Great Depression, the coin was well received by the public. The design struck well and held up to use, unlike the Standing Liberty coin. The image of Washington and the depiction of an eagle on the reverse remained the same for decades, though there were small modifications along the way.
In 1964, there was a shortage of coins, especially those containing silver. As the price for the precious metal increased, quarters became more valuable, so people started hoarding them. The Coinage Act of 1965 was passed to relieve the shortage by changing the composition of silver coins. The new quarters would be made of copper and nickel. This led to the end of silver Washington quarters.
Year Issued: 1950
Face Value: $0.25
Mint: San Francisco
Mintage: 10,284,004
This is your chance to own this historic and beautiful 1950 silver Washington quarter. Order yours today.
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