1992-P Washington Quarter Dollar
Coin/Bullion · United States Mint (Philadelphia Branch). The Philadelphia Mint is the primary minting facility of the US Mint, founded in 1792.
Pattern: Washington Quarter (Circulating Commemorative type), originally introduced in 1932 to honor George Washington's 200th birthday.
Type
Coin/Bullion
Maker
United States Mint (Philadelphia Branch). The Philadelphia Mint is the primary minting facility of the US Mint, founded in 1792.
Material
Cupro-Nickel Clad (Outer layers of 75% copper and 25% nickel, bonded to a core of pure copper). This is not silver; the US Mint ceased circulating silver quarters in 1964.
Dimensions
Diameter: 24.26 mm (0.955 in); Thickness: 1.75 mm; Weight: 5.67 grams.
Description
A standard circulating United States twenty-five cent piece. The obverse features the left-facing portrait of George Washington, the nation's first president. This post-1964 specimen exhibits the characteristic copper-colored edge striping associated with clad coinage.
Key Features
The 'P' mint mark located behind Washington's ponytail, distinguishing it from 'D' (Denver) or 'S' (San Francisco) specimens.
Material & Composition
Cupro-Nickel Clad (Outer layers of 75% copper and 25% nickel, bonded to a core of pure copper). This is not silver; the US Mint ceased circulating silver quarters in 1964.
Finish & Decoration
Business strike finish. Features the profile of George Washington on the obverse (designed by John Flanagan) and an Eagle with outstretched wings on the reverse.
Hallmarks & Stamps
'P' mint mark (Philadelphia), 'LIBERTY' motto, 'IN GOD WE TRUST' motto, '1992' date stamp, and 'JF' designer initials on the neck truncation.
Construction Details
Die-struck using high-pressure coin presses on a pre-cut metal planchet.
Functional Features
Reeded edge (119 reeds) to prevent 'clipping' or fraudulent shaving of the metal.
Handle & Grip Details
None (standard flat disc currency form).
Craftsmanship Details
Mass-produced industrial strike; machine-centered with consistent relief heights typical of the US Mint's 1990s production standards.
Authentication Indicators
Correct font styles, 'JF' initials present, reeded edge, and lack of silver 'ring' sound test (clad coins have a duller thud).
Origin & Manufacturing
USA; Philadelphia Mint, Pennsylvania.
Era & Period
Modern Era (Clad Coinage Period, 1965-Present).
Age Estimate
Issued in 1992 (approximately 32 years old).
Cultural Significance
A staple of American micro-transactions for decades; used in vending machines, laundry, and parking meters throughout the late 20th century.
Condition Notes
Circulated condition; exhibits surface bag marks, minor scratches, and slight oxidation/toning on the high points of the hair and lettering.
Value Estimate
Face value ($0.25). In extremely high uncirculated grades (MS67 or higher), it may carry a premium to collectors ($5-$20).
Care & Maintenance
For circulating coins, no special care is required. Do not clean or polish with abrasives as this lowers numismatic value.
Similar Pieces
1992-S Silver Proof Quarter (90% silver, high mirror finish), 1992-D Quarter (Denver Mint).
Interesting Facts
While similar silver versions exist in Proof sets (mintage ~1.3 million), this 'P' business strike was produced in massive quantities for commerce.