The 1942 Washington Quarter offers collectors a fascinating glimpse into America’s wartime coinage. Struck at the height of World War II, these silver quarters served both as everyday money and as symbolic pieces of national resilience. While millions were minted, condition, mint mark, and error varieties create major value differences today.
Our analysis of 50,000+ recent auction results shows one clear trend: 1942 quarters consistently outperform price guide expectations—especially when collectors focus on scarcer mint marks, proof issues, and recognized die varieties.
1942 Quarter Value by Variety
Here’s a breakdown of current market prices for the main 1942 quarter types, based on grade:
| Type | Good | Fine | AU | MS | PR |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1942 No Mint Mark (P) | $5.49 | $6.17 | $11.00 | $34.67 | — |
| 1942-D (Denver) | $6.00 | $6.17 | $11.50 | $103.29 | — |
| 1942-S (San Francisco) | $6.79 | $8.50 | $24.50 | $76.33 | — |
| 1942 Proof (Philadelphia) | — | — | $29.00 | — | $99.00 |
History of the 1942 Quarter
The 1942 Washington Quarter marks a defining moment in U.S. coinage history, struck during America’s transition into full-scale involvement in World War II. Following the attack on Pearl Harbor in December 1941, the United States entered the war, reshaping the nation’s economy, industry, and even coin production.
Originally introduced in 1932 to honor the bicentennial of George Washington’s birth, the Washington Quarter design by sculptor John Flanagan had become a familiar fixture in American pockets by 1942. The obverse depicts Washington’s left-facing profile, while the reverse features the bold heraldic eagle clutching arrows and an olive branch—symbols of both strength and peace.
In 1942, three mints contributed to production: Philadelphia (no mint mark), Denver (D), and San Francisco (S). Together, they struck more than 141 million quarters, with Philadelphia alone responsible for over 102 million pieces—one of the largest mintages of the early Washington series. This ensured the coin’s widespread circulation during wartime America.
What makes the 1942 quarter historically significant is its composition. These were among the last Washington quarters struck with the 90% silver and 10% copper alloy before wartime economies and, later, post-war coinage reforms changed U.S. minting practices. Collectors today value them not only for their precious metal content but also as artifacts of an America entering one of its most challenging eras.
Key Features of the 1942 Quarter
The 1942 Washington Quarter carried John Flanagan’s design into its tenth year of production, during a time when the U.S. Mint was operating at full capacity to support the wartime economy. Three facilities—Philadelphia, Denver, and San Francisco—produced circulation strikes, while Philadelphia also issued a limited number of proof coins for collectors.
Obverse of the 1942 Quarter
The obverse displays George Washington’s left-facing portrait, framed by key inscriptions:
- LIBERTY arches across the top
- 1942 (the date) appears at the bottom
- IN GOD WE TRUST is positioned to the left of Washington’s neck
- Sculptor John Flanagan’s “JF” initials appear at the base of the bust
Reverse of the 1942 Quarter
The reverse continues the heraldic eagle design, featuring:
- A centrally placed bald eagle with wings spread wide
- Arrows clutched in the eagle’s talons, symbolizing defense
- An olive branch beneath, representing peace
- UNITED STATES OF AMERICA across the top rim
- E PLURIBUS UNUM on a banner above the eagle
- QUARTER DOLLAR inscribed along the bottom rim
- The mint mark—“D” for Denver, “S” for San Francisco, or blank for Philadelphia—placed below the olive branches
Other Specifications
The 1942 Washington Quarter was struck in the traditional pre-1965 silver composition:
- Metal Content: 90% silver, 10% copper
- Silver Weight: 0.1808 troy ounces (5.623 g)
- Total Weight: 0.20094 troy ounces (6.25 g)
- Diameter: 24.3 mm (0.9567 in)
- Thickness: 1.75 mm (0.0687 in)
- Edge: Reeded, with 119 reeds
1942 Quarter Grading
| Grade | Obverse Details | Reverse Details | Eye Appeal / Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Good (G-4) | Washington’s portrait heavily worn; hair details above ear nearly smooth; LIBERTY and date still visible. | Eagle’s breast and wings mostly flat; arrows and olive branch outlines visible but lacking detail. | Dark silver color, heavy circulation wear. |
| Fine (F-12) | Moderate wear; some hair detail above Washington’s ear remains; cheekbone flattened. | Eagle’s wings and tail feathers partially defined; arrows and olive branch clearer. | More balanced appearance, moderate toning possible. |
| Very Fine (VF-20/30) | Stronger hair detail, especially above ear and forehead; cheek contours visible. | Eagle’s feathers show clear separation; breast slightly worn. | Attractive circulated look; even wear with light toning. |
| About Uncirculated (AU-50/58) | Nearly full hair detail; only light rub on cheek and high curls. | Eagle’s breast feathers slightly worn; wings mostly sharp. | Retains partial mint luster; minor contact marks possible. |
| Mint State (MS-60 to MS-68) | Full sharp hair curls and cheekbone detail; no wear. | All eagle feathers, arrows, and olive branch sharply defined. | Strong mint luster, possible rainbow toning; premiums for flawless surfaces. |
1942 Quarter Value Guides
1942 No Mint Mark Quarter Value
The 1942 Philadelphia quarter stands out as the workhorse of wartime coin production, representing the largest single mintage in the Washington quarter series up to that point.
What makes this issue particularly notable is its role as America’s primary circulating quarter during the critical early months of World War II. Despite its massive production numbers, the coin maintains sharp strike quality and clear design details, showcasing the Philadelphia Mint’s commitment to excellence even under wartime pressure.
The absence of a mint mark gives it a clean, uncluttered appearance that many collectors find aesthetically pleasing.
1942 No Mint Mark Price/Grade Chart
Price by 1-70 Grade (Latest Auction Records Included)
| Grade | Recent Auction Price | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Good (G-4) | $5 – $6 | Silver melt value range, heavy wear. |
| Fine (F-12) | $6 – $7 | Lightly circulated, motto and details clear. |
| About Uncirculated (AU-50/58) | $10 – $15 | Slight wear on high points, some luster remains. |
| Mint State (MS-65) | $120 – $200 | Strong luster, sharp details, minor contact marks. |
| Mint State (MS-67/68) | $1,000 – $3,000+ | Registry-set quality, exceptional eye appeal. |
1942-D Quarter Value
The 1942-D quarter holds a unique position as Denver’s contribution to wartime coin production, featuring the distinctive “D” mint mark below the eagle on the reverse. What sets this issue apart is its moderate mintage combined with Denver’s reputation for sharp, well-struck coins during this period.
The 1942-D represents an interesting collecting opportunity—common enough to be affordable yet scarce enough in high grades to command respect from serious numismatists. Denver’s quality control during wartime production resulted in coins with excellent detail retention and attractive luster, making gem examples particularly desirable among collectors seeking superior eye appeal.
1942-D Quarter Price/Grade Chart
Price by 1-70 Grade (Latest Auction Records Included)
| Grade | Recent Auction Price | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Good (G-4) | $6 – $7 | Well-worn but collectible; value above silver melt. |
| Fine (F-12) | $7 – $8 | Moderate wear, legends remain clear. |
| About Uncirculated (AU-50/58) | $20 – $35 | Traces of wear only on high points, partial luster visible. |
| Mint State (MS-65) | $250 – $400 | Crisp detail, bright luster, minor bag marks. |
| Mint State (MS-67/68) | $4,000 – $6,300+ | Registry-level rarity, exceptional strike and eye appeal. |
1942-S Quarter Value
The 1942-S Washington Quarter holds a unique position in numismatic history as one of the most coveted silver quarters from the World War II era. Minted in San Francisco during wartime, this quarter represents a pivotal moment when the U.S. Mint was producing coins under extraordinary circumstances.
What makes the 1942-S particularly special is its dramatic rarity in high grades – while lower-grade examples are relatively accessible, finding Mint State specimens becomes exponentially more challenging and valuable. Its silver composition and direct connection to America’s wartime period elevate its desirability among collectors.
1942-S Quarter Price/Grade Chart
Price by 1-70 Grade (Latest Auction Records Included)
| Grade | Recent Auction Price | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Good (G-4) | $6 – $7 | Silver value floor; heavy wear. |
| Fine (F-12) | $8 – $10 | Clear legends, moderate circulation wear. |
| About Uncirculated (AU-50/58) | $20 – $40 | Light wear with partial luster. |
| Mint State (MS-65) | $65 – $100 | Bright luster, attractive eye appeal. |
| Mint State (MS-66) | $150 – $250 | Scarcer; sharp strike, minimal marks. |
| Mint State (MS-67) | $300 – $528+ | Rare at this level; strong auction demand. |
1942 Proof Quarter Value
The 1942 Proof Washington Quarter stands as one of the most exceptional coins of America’s wartime era, representing the pinnacle of minting craftsmanship during World War II.
Unlike regular circulation strikes, proof coins were specially manufactured using polished dies and planchets, producing mirror-like fields and razor-sharp details that showcase the artistry of the U.S. Mint.
The 1942 proof quarter is especially remarkable due to its limited production run, as the Mint’s resources were focused primarily on circulation coinage to meet wartime demands. This scarcity, combined with its stunning visual appeal and historical context, makes the 1942 Proof Quarter highly sought after by advanced collectors and numismatic investors.
1942 Proof Quarter Price/Grade Chart
Price by 1-70 Grade (Latest Auction Records Included)
| Grade | Recent Auction Price | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Proof-65 (PR65) | $100 – $150 | Strong mirrors, some light marks. |
| Proof-66 (PR66) | $72 – $125 | Bright fields, minor hairlines visible. |
| Proof-67 (PR67) | $240 – $264 | Premium gem; sharply struck with exceptional eye appeal. |
| Proof-68 (PR68) | $1,320 – $3,000 | Ultra-rare quality; registry set level. |
Rare 1942 Quarter Error List
1. 1942 Doubled Die Obverse (FS-101) Errors
The 1942 Doubled Die Obverse (FS-101) is one of the most dramatic error varieties in the Washington quarter series. It shows strong doubling across Washington’s portrait and inscriptions, especially in:
- The word “LIBERTY”
- The motto “IN GOD WE TRUST”
- Portions of the date “1942”
This doubling occurred when the working die was hubbed multiple times at slightly misaligned angles, producing a distinctive “shadow-like” appearance. The effect is especially visible in Washington’s hair curls and facial features, making it one of the more eye-catching doubled die quarters of the 1940s.
Collectors actively seek FS-101 examples due to their bold diagnostics and relative scarcity. Auction prices vary widely depending on strike clarity and overall preservation.
1942 Doubled Die Obverse (FS-101) Price/Grade Chart
Price by 1–70 Grade (Latest Auction Records Included)
| Grade | Recent Auction Price | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Fine (F12–F15) | $50 – $100 | Doubling visible under magnification, circulated wear. |
| About Uncirculated (AU50–AU58) | $150 – $300 | Clear doubling with strong details, light wear. |
| Mint State (MS63–MS65) | $400 – $950 | Sharp doubling, strong luster, some bag marks. |
| Gem Mint State (MS66+) | $1,200 – $2,500+ | Premium rarity; bold doubling with excellent eye appeal. |
2. 1942 Doubled Die Reverse (FS-801 to FS-803) Errors
The 1942 Doubled Die Reverse encompasses several notable varieties cataloged as FS-801, FS-802, and FS-803, each displaying unique areas of doubling on the reverse design.
- FS-801 → Strongest doubling in the eagle’s wing feathers and tail.
- FS-802 → Prominent doubling in the inscriptions “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” and “QUARTER DOLLAR.”
- FS-803 → Doubling primarily affects the olive branch and arrows beneath the eagle.
While these reverse doubled dies are generally more subtle than obverse errors, their clear diagnostics and historical significance make them important finds for Washington quarter specialists. Collectors particularly prize examples where the doubling is sharp and easily visible without magnification.
1942 Doubled Die Reverse (FS-801 to FS-803) Price/Grade Chart
Price by 1–70 Grade (Latest Auction Records Included)
| Grade | Recent Auction Price | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Fine (F12–F15) | $40 – $85 | Circulated examples with visible doubling under magnification. |
| About Uncirculated (AU50–AU58) | $120 – $250 | Light wear; doubling visible in wings, legends, or branch. |
| Mint State (MS63–MS65) | $350 – $800 | Stronger doubling with crisp strike and good luster. |
| Gem Mint State (MS66+) | $1,000 – $2,200+ | Rare in top grades; bold doubling adds premium value. |
3. 1942-D Doubled Die Obverse (DDO) Errors
The 1942-D Doubled Die Obverse is one of the standout error varieties of the wartime Washington quarters. This Denver Mint error shows distinctive doubling across the obverse, most notably in the inscriptions “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST.”
In some examples, the “D” mint mark itself may also show doubling traits, making these pieces even more fascinating to specialists. The doubling was created when the working die received multiple misaligned impressions, leaving a shadow-like effect visible on the lettering and parts of Washington’s portrait.
Compared to Philadelphia issues, the Denver DDO is significantly scarcer, and collectors place strong premiums on authenticated examples—especially those in higher Mint State grades.
1942-D Doubled Die Obverse Quarter Price/Grade Chart
Price by 1–70 Grade (Latest Auction Records Included)
| Grade | Recent Auction Price | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Fine (F12–F15) | $150 – $300 | Doubling visible with magnification; heavy circulation wear. |
| About Uncirculated (AU50–AU58) | $500 – $900 | Light wear; doubling still clear in lettering and portrait. |
| Mint State (MS63–MS65) | $1,200 – $2,400 | Strong luster with obvious doubling; scarce in MS grades. |
| Gem Mint State (MS66+) | $3,000 – $6,000+ | Rare elite survivors with bold doubling; highly prized by advanced collectors. |
4. 1942-D Doubled Die Reverse (DDR) Errors
The 1942-D Doubled Die Reverse is one of the scarcer wartime Washington quarter varieties, showing noticeable doubling across the reverse design elements. Collectors can identify this error by looking for:
- Eagle’s wing and tail feathers that show shadow-like doubling.
- Lettering in “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” and sometimes “QUARTER DOLLAR” with a blurred or doubled appearance.
This variety is particularly desirable because Denver Mint doubled die reverses are much less common than their Philadelphia counterparts. Authentication is critical, as genuine examples can command strong premiums—especially in higher Mint State grades.
1942-D Doubled Die Reverse Quarter Price/Grade Chart
Price by 1–70 Grade (Latest Auction Records Included)
| Grade | Recent Auction Price | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Fine (F12–F15) | $200 – $350 | Doubling visible under magnification; circulation wear common. |
| About Uncirculated (AU50–AU58) | $600 – $1,000 | Light wear, doubling still clear on wings and inscriptions. |
| Mint State (MS63–MS65) | $1,500 – $3,200 | Attractive luster, strong doubling; rare in certified MS grades. |
| Gem Mint State (MS66+) | $4,000 – $7,500+ | Exceptional survivors with bold doubling; trophy coins for error specialists. |
5. 1942-S Repunched Mintmark (FS-501) Errors
The 1942-S Repunched Mintmark (FS-501) is a classic wartime error variety caused when the San Francisco “S” mintmark was punched into the die more than once at slightly different angles.
Collectors can spot this error by looking for:
- Shadowing or doubling around the “S” mintmark.
- Small traces of the original punch beneath or adjacent to the final “S.”
- Clear separation in high-grade examples that makes the variety easy to confirm.
Since mintmarks were still hand-punched in the early 1940s, RPM errors like the FS-501 provide a tangible glimpse into historical minting practices. Their wartime production context makes them especially appealing to specialists in San Francisco coinage and Washington Quarter varieties.
1942-S RPM FS-501 Quarter Price/Grade Chart
Price by 1–70 Grade (Latest Auction Records Included)
| Grade | Recent Auction Price | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Fine (F12–F15) | $40 – $75 | Doubling faint but detectable under magnification. |
| About Uncirculated (AU50–AU58) | $100 – $250 | Light wear, mintmark repunching remains clear. |
| Mint State (MS63–MS65) | $400 – $850 | Popular collector grade; doubling sharp and visible. |
| Gem Mint State (MS66+) | $1,200 – $2,000+ | Scarce top-grade survivors, especially desirable for registry sets. |
Where to Sell Your Quarter Coin?
Now that you know the value of your quarter, the next step is deciding where to sell it. There are several trusted options—both online and in person—that can help you get the best price depending on your coin’s rarity and condition.
To see the full list of recommended places, along with their advantages and disadvantages, check our complete guide on where to sell your quarter coins.
FAQ About the 1942 Washington Quarter
1. Why is the 1942 Quarter historically important?
The 1942 Washington Quarter was struck in the middle of World War II. Like earlier issues, it was made of 90% silver, making it both a piece of U.S. wartime history and a collectible coin with intrinsic metal value.
2. Which mints produced the 1942 Quarter?
The coin was minted at Philadelphia (no mint mark), Denver (“D”), and San Francisco (“S”). Philadelphia struck the largest number, while the 1942-S is the scarcer issue in higher Mint State grades.
3. Are there key errors or varieties for the 1942 Quarter?
Yes. Collectors especially seek the 1942-D Doubled Die Reverse (DDR), where doubling appears on the eagle’s feathers and inscriptions, and the 1942-S Repunched Mintmark (RPM FS-501), which shows multiple impressions of the “S.” These varieties can bring substantial premiums.
4. How much is a 1942 Quarter worth today?
Circulated examples are generally worth $5–$15, close to silver melt value. Mint State coins (MS65) can range from $100–$300, while gem examples (MS67+) may exceed $1,000. Rare varieties like the DDR or RPM can sell for several thousand dollars, depending on grade.
5. What should collectors look for in a 1942 Quarter?
Strong strikes with detailed hair on Washington and clear eagle feathering are highly desirable. Look for RPMs under magnification and doubled features in inscriptions. Coins with original luster and no cleaning are much more valuable, and certification by PCGS or NGC is recommended for rarer varieties.
