1932-S Washington Bicentennial Quarter - worth up to $99 Million

In the world of coin collecting, few pieces capture the imagination and historical significance quite like the 1932-S Washington Bicentennial Quarter. This remarkable coin, minted in San Francisco during the depths of the Great Depression, stands as a testament to American resilience and the enduring legacy of the nation’s first president, George Washington.

A Coin Born from Celebration

The year 1932 marked the 200th anniversary of George Washington’s birth, and the United States government sought to commemorate this momentous occasion in a way that would reach every American. The decision was made to replace the Standing Liberty quarter, which had been in circulation since 1916, with a new design featuring Washington’s profile. This move was not without controversy, as it marked the first time a president’s likeness appeared on a circulating U.S. coin.

The Design: A Sculptural Masterpiece

The task of creating the new quarter fell to sculptor John Flanagan, whose design was chosen from a pool of talented artists. Flanagan’s work masterfully captured Washington’s stoic visage, presenting a profile that was both dignified and approachable. The obverse of the coin features Washington’s left-facing bust, with the inscriptions “LIBERTY” above and “IN GOD WE TRUST” to the left. The year “1932” is prominently displayed below.

The reverse of the coin showcases a majestic eagle with wings spread, perched atop a bundle of arrows with olive branches below, symbolizing America’s readiness for both war and peace. The inscriptions “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” and “E PLURIBUS UNUM” encircle the eagle, while “QUARTER DOLLAR” is written beneath.

The San Francisco Mint: A Key Player

While the Washington quarter was minted at all three operational U.S. Mints in 1932 – Philadelphia, Denver, and San Francisco – it is the San Francisco issue that has captured the hearts of collectors. The “S” mintmark, located on the obverse below the wreath, distinguishes this particular variety.

The San Francisco Mint, known for its high-quality production, faced significant challenges during the coin’s inaugural year. The Great Depression had severely impacted coin demand, leading to reduced mintages across the board. As a result, only 408,000 quarters were struck at the San Francisco facility in 1932, making it the lowest mintage of the three mints for that year.

Scarcity and Collectibility

The limited production of the 1932-S Washington quarter has made it a prized possession among numismatists. While not the rarest of the Washington quarters (that honor belongs to the 1932-D), the 1932-S remains a key date in the series and a coin that sparks intense interest whenever it comes to market.

Several factors contribute to the coin’s desirability:

Low mintage: With only 408,000 pieces produced, it’s naturally scarce.
First-year issue: As the inaugural year of a new design, many were saved as souvenirs.
Depression-era context: Economic hardships meant fewer coins were preserved in high grades.
Historical significance: Its connection to Washington’s bicentennial adds appeal.

Grading and Value

The condition of a 1932-S Washington quarter plays a crucial role in determining its value. Coins are graded on a scale from Poor (P-1) to Perfect Mint State (MS-70). For the 1932-S, even circulated examples in Good (G-4) condition command a significant premium over face value.

Uncirculated specimens are particularly sought after, with prices increasing dramatically for coins in Mint State grades. A 1932-S in MS-65 condition can fetch tens of thousands of dollars at auction, while the rare MS-67 examples have been known to surpass the six-figure mark.

Collectors and investors alike should be aware of the importance of proper authentication and grading. Due to the coin’s value, counterfeits do exist, making certification by reputable grading services like PCGS or NGC essential for high-value transactions.

The Legacy Continues

The introduction of the Washington quarter in 1932 marked the beginning of a design era that would last for decades. The basic obverse design remains in use today, having survived the transition to clad composition in 1965 and the introduction of the 50 State Quarters program in 1999.

The 1932-S, however, holds a special place as part of the original silver series. Its 90% silver composition (with 10% copper) gives it intrinsic value beyond its numismatic worth, connecting it to a time when American coinage was still tied to precious metals.

Collecting Strategies

For those interested in acquiring a 1932-S Washington quarter, several approaches can be considered:

Type collecting: Obtain one example to represent the early Washington quarter design.
Date and mintmark collecting: Aim to complete the entire 1932 set (P, D, and S).
Condition rarity: Focus on finding the highest grade possible within one’s budget.
Historical significance: Pair the coin with other Depression-era memorabilia for a comprehensive collection.

Preservation and Care

Owners of 1932-S quarters should take care to preserve their investment. Proper storage in non-reactive holders, avoiding handling with bare hands, and protection from environmental factors like humidity and extreme temperatures are crucial for maintaining a coin’s condition and value.

The 1932-S in Popular Culture

The rarity and historical significance of the 1932-S Washington quarter have made it a subject of fascination beyond numismatic circles. It has been featured in novels, mentioned in films about the Great Depression era, and even inspired treasure hunt storylines in various media.

This cultural presence has further cemented the coin’s status as more than just a collectible – it’s a tangible piece of American history, representing a pivotal moment when the nation honored its founding father while grappling with one of its most challenging economic periods.

Educational Value

The 1932-S Washington quarter serves as an excellent educational tool, offering insights into various aspects of American history, economics, and art:

The Great Depression: It provides a tangible link to the economic struggles of the 1930s.
Numismatic design: The coin showcases the evolution of American coinage aesthetics.
Minting technology: It reflects the capabilities of the San Francisco Mint during a critical period.
Monetary policy: The coin’s silver content speaks to the nation’s monetary standards of the time.

Looking to the Future

As we approach the centennial of the Washington quarter’s introduction, the 1932-S continues to captivate new generations of collectors. Its enduring appeal lies not just in its rarity or monetary value, but in its ability to connect us with a pivotal moment in American history.

For those fortunate enough to own or encounter a 1932-S Washington quarter, the experience is akin to holding a miniature time capsule – a small, silvery window into the past that continues to shine brightly in the present.

Whether you’re a seasoned numismatist or a curious history buff, the 1932-S Washington Bicentennial Quarter remains a fascinating subject of study and admiration. It stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of George Washington, the resilience of the American spirit during trying times, and the artistry and craftsmanship of U.S. coinage.

As we look to the future, one thing is certain: the allure of the 1932-S Washington quarter will continue to grow, ensuring its place as a treasured artifact in the annals of American numismatic history for generations to come.

1932-S Washington Bicentennial Quarter – worth up to $99 Million