1946 US Quarter Value Determination and Pricing Guide

Author

Reads 798

Detailed image of stacked silver US quarter coins showing engraved design.
Credit: pexels.com, Detailed image of stacked silver US quarter coins showing engraved design.

To determine the value of a 1946 US quarter, you'll want to check its condition and look for any rare characteristics.

The value of a circulated 1946 quarter is typically around $0.50 to $1.50, depending on its condition.

If your quarter is in good condition, with minimal wear and tear, it's likely worth around $0.50.

However, if your quarter is in excellent condition, with no signs of wear, its value can increase to $1.50.

Determining Value

To determine the value of a 1946 quarter, you need to consider its condition. A coin in circulated condition is worth at least its weight in silver, which is $5.92.

In extremely fine condition, a 1946 quarter without a mint mark is worth around $6.50, while the Denver and San Francisco mint marks are worth the same. Uncirculated coins with an MS 60 grade are worth around $10.

The value of a 1946 quarter increases significantly in higher grades. For example, an uncirculated coin with an MS 65 grade can sell for around $40 for the no mint mark, $30 for the D mint mark, and $35 for the S mint mark.

D Value

A top-view shot of scattered US currency notes and coins alongside a red wallet on a white surface.
Credit: pexels.com, A top-view shot of scattered US currency notes and coins alongside a red wallet on a white surface.

The Denver mint struck a relatively small number of quarters in 1946, with a total mintage of just over 9 million.

This smaller mintage doesn't necessarily translate to higher values, as the 1946 D quarter is actually quite common and easy to find in decent condition.

A coin graded XF45 by PCGS is valued at $8, which is comparable to its Philadelphia counterparts.

At higher grades, the value of the 1946 D quarter increases, with a modest $32 for a coin graded MS65.

The PCGS has certified 14 coins at MS67+, and it values those at $3,200 each.

One of these high-grade coins sold at auction in February 2023 for $3,120, according to the NGC.

Value Assessment

Assessing the value of a 1946 quarter can be a fascinating process. The total mintage was just over 53 million for the Philadelphia mint, with Denver and San Francisco minting fewer coins.

A coin graded XF45 is valued by the PCGS at $8, rising to $11 at MS60. This is the same value as their Philadelphia counterparts.

Close-up of an antique American coin on burlap fabric emphasizing historical value.
Credit: pexels.com, Close-up of an antique American coin on burlap fabric emphasizing historical value.

Uncirculated coins, on the other hand, can be worth significantly more. A 1946 quarter graded MS65 can sell for around $40, while a gem MS65 can sell for around $30.

Here's a rough breakdown of the values for a 1946 quarter in different conditions:

A 1946 quarter with no mint mark is worth around $6.50 in extremely fine condition. If you're looking for an uncirculated coin, values start at around $11 for a quarter graded MS60.

The values for a 1946 quarter can vary depending on the mint mark and the condition of the coin. A 1946 S quarter, for example, can be worth around $8 in extremely fine condition, while an uncirculated coin can be worth up to $35.

In circulated condition, a 1946 quarter is worth at least its weight in silver, which is around $5.92. However, if you have a coin graded MS67, it can be worth up to $2,500.

It's worth noting that prices for coins can vary significantly depending on the timing of sales and the eye appeal of individual coins. One example of this is a 1946 (P) quarter graded MS67 that sold at auction in 2003 for a record-breaking $8,050.

Grading and Pricing

Credit: youtube.com, 1946 Quarter Worth Money - How Much Is It Worth and Why?

A coin's grade is crucial in determining its value, and the 1946 Washington Quarter is no exception. The condition of the coin means everything to collectors, and the better-preserved the coin is, the higher the asking price will be.

To determine the grade of your 1946 Washington Quarter, you can refer to the grading guides provided. These guides outline the different grades and their associated characteristics, such as Uncirculated, Extremely Fine, Fine, and Good.

The grade of your coin will significantly impact its value. For example, an Uncirculated coin is worth more than a Good coin. Here's a rough idea of what you might expect to pay for a 1946 Washington Quarter given its type and condition:

Pricing Washington

Pricing Washington quarters can be a bit tricky, but it's essential to understand that the condition and type of the coin significantly impact its value.

The condition of the coin is crucial, with Uncirculated coins being the most valuable, followed by Extremely Fine, Fine, and Good.

Credit: youtube.com, Grading Washington Quarters

For collectors, coins that are well-preserved and show minimal signs of wear are highly sought after. In fact, a coin that's been preserved through the years will appeal more to a collector because of its inherent beauty.

If you're looking to buy a 1946 Washington Quarter, you should consider the type of coin you're purchasing, as different types were minted every year. The exact type of coin will affect the price you pay.

Here's a rough idea of what you might expect to pay for a 1946 Washington Quarter given its type and condition:

Keep in mind that these prices are based on the Red Book and may vary depending on the specific coin and market conditions.

Auction Result for Rare Coin

Auction results for rare coins can be truly remarkable. A 1946-S Washington quarter sold for $207 due to its stunning eye appeal and preservation.

The coin's vibrant frosty luster and golden iridescence played a big role in its high value. This combination of characteristics is rare in coins.

Credit: youtube.com, Coin Grading 101: Top 3 Coin Grading Services For Your Rare Coins, NGC vs PCGS vs CAC

Sellers and buyers can both benefit from auctioning rare coins. The seller receives a high price, while the buyer gets to add a perfect coin to their collection.

It's worth taking the time to study your old coins and compare them to others. This can help you determine how much your coins are worth.

Assessing Value

The 1946 US quarter value is largely dependent on its condition and rarity. A coin in circulated condition is worth at least its weight in silver, which is $5.92.

If the coin is in extremely fine condition, its value increases to around $6.50 for the Philadelphia, Denver, and San Francisco quarters. Uncirculated coins with an MS 60 grade can sell for around $10.

Values at most grades are similar for the Philadelphia, Denver, and San Francisco quarters, with some slight variations. For example, an MS67 example of the 1946 S quarter is valued at a modest $275.

No Mint Mark Value

Credit: youtube.com, NO MINT MARK ! How To Know If It's Rare & Valuable

If you're looking at a 1946 quarter without a mint mark, it's worth noting that it was produced in Philadelphia, with over 53 million coins coming out of the coin presses there.

Those coins can be found fairly cheaply in circulated condition, with a price tag of around $8 for an example graded XF45.

In contrast, uncirculated coins are much rarer and can command higher prices, with values starting at around $11 for a quarter graded MS60.

A 1946 no mint mark quarter in mint state condition can be worth up to $2,500 if it's graded MS67, although prices vary depending on the timing of sales and the eye appeal of individual coins.

It's worth keeping in mind that even high-grade coins can be purchased for a lower price if they don't have particularly attractive toning, such as the lilac and rose toning that sold for a record-breaking $8,050 in 2003.

The silver melt value for this coin is $5.92, which is its worth in circulated condition.

The value of a 1946 no mint mark quarter also increases with its grade, with uncirculated coins graded MS65 selling for around $35.

D/D, Re-Punched Mintmark

Credit: youtube.com, Repunched Mint Marks and Over Mint Marks

The 1946 D/D Quarter, a fascinating error coin with a re-punched mintmark, is worth around $9 in its poorest condition.

Condition influences value at the highest grades, but values stay fairly flat through circulated grades, making it a relatively affordable error coin to collect.

An uncirculated MS60 example is worth around $20, a significant increase from the circulated grades.

Gems are much rarer, starting at $650 for a coin graded MS65, and the finest example to have been certified by the PCGS is a single coin graded MS66, valued at $900.

The Reverse

The design on the reverse of the 1946 quarter features a dramatic image of a heraldic eagle with outstretched wings, perched on a bundle of arrows.

The eagle is surrounded by a garland of olive leaves symbolizing peace, and the country name is inscribed between the eagle's wings and the edge of the coin.

The motto "E PLURIBUS UNUM" appears above the eagle's head, referencing the country's creation as a union of states.

The denomination "ONE DOLLAR" is written in full at the bottom of the coin, curving parallel to the lower coin edge.

Look for a small "D" or "S" just below the center of the olive leaf garland, indicating that the mint mark appears on the reverse in 1946.

Special Cases

Credit: youtube.com, Is Your 1946 Quarter Worth Millions? 5 Myths Debunked: Shocking Truth: 1946 Quarter Worth Millions?

The 1946 US quarter value has some special cases worth noting. The 1946 quarter with a doubled die error can be worth significantly more than its face value. This error occurs when the die used to strike the coin is slightly misaligned, resulting in a doubling of the image.

In some cases, the 1946 quarter can be worth up to $1,000 in mint condition, depending on the error and its rarity. The error can be found on the obverse of the coin, and it's essential to have it authenticated by a reputable third-party service.

If you suspect you have a rare 1946 quarter, it's crucial to get it appraised by a professional to determine its authenticity and value.

Re-Punched Mint Mark

Re-punched mint marks on 1946 quarters can be a fascinating find, but spotting them requires a keen eye. You'll need a microscope or loupe to see the faint outline of the first "S" just above the second mint mark.

Credit: youtube.com, Live Coin Q&A Presents: #4 Repunched Mint Marks

These error coins are quite rare, and their value depends on their condition. A coin graded 4 is worth around $12, and that value holds steady all the way to MS60.

The same type of error appears on some of the Denver coins from the same year, with values starting at $9 for coins in the poorest condition. However, the values stay fairly flat through the circulated grades.

Condition influences value at the highest grades, with an uncirculated MS60 example worth around $20. Gems are much rarer, starting at $650 for a coin graded MS65.

The finest example to have been certified by the PCGS is a single coin graded MS66 and valued at $900, a truly remarkable find.

Is Silver in Silver Coins Silver?

Silver in silver coins can be a bit tricky to verify, but it's not impossible. CoinTrackers has a tool called Is My Coin Silver? that can help determine if your coin is indeed silver.

The weight of silver in coins is measured in troy ounces, which is about 2 grams more than a standard ounce. This is because troy ounces are used specifically for measuring precious metals.

A 1946 Washington Quarter, for example, contains .1808 troy oz of pure silver.

Allison Emmerich

Senior Writer

Allison Emmerich is a seasoned writer with a keen interest in technology and its impact on daily life. Her work often explores the latest trends in digital payments and financial services, with a particular focus on mobile payment ATMs. Based in a bustling urban center, Allison combines her technical knowledge with a knack for clear, engaging prose to bring complex topics to a broader audience.

Love What You Read? Stay Updated!

Join our community for insights, tips, and more.