Gold-Plated United States Quarter Dollar, George Washington Obverse
Coin/Bullion (Modified) · United States Mint (Original Strike); Third-party company (Plating)
Pattern: Washington Quarter Dollar, Statehood or Eagle Reverse Series
Type
Coin/Bullion (Modified)
Maker
United States Mint (Original Strike); Third-party company (Plating)
Material
Vermeil-style finish; 24k Gold plating over a base composition of 91.67% copper and 8.33% nickel (standard Cupro-Nickel clad)
Dimensions
Diameter: 24.26 mm; Thickness: 1.75 mm; Weight: approx. 5.67 grams (standard US Quarter weight)
Description
A standard United States Quarter Dollar that has been enhanced through the application of a thin layer of gold plating. This treatment creates a high-luster, 'Vermeil' look, transforming a common circulation coin into a shimmering collectible often marketed for jewelry or commemorative purposes.
Key Features
Distinctive 'D' mint mark; vivid gold color contrast against the standard cupro-nickel edge grain; reflective plated surface
Material & Composition
Vermeil-style finish; 24k Gold plating over a base composition of 91.67% copper and 8.33% nickel (standard Cupro-Nickel clad)
Finish & Decoration
Bright gold electroplated finish over standard circulating coin relief; features the left-facing profile of George Washington
Hallmarks & Stamps
Stamped 'UNITED STATES OF AMERICA', 'LIBERTY', 'IN GOD WE TRUST', and 'QUARTER DOLLAR'; Mint mark 'D' (Denver) visible
Construction Details
Die-struck by the US Mint using high-pressure coinage presses; subsequently electroplated with a thin layer of gold by a private minting or novelty firm
Functional Features
Reeded edge for anti-counterfeiting; legal tender (though modified); intended for use as a collectible or novelty item
Handle & Grip Details
None (standard coin form factors)
Craftsmanship Details
Professional machine striking by the US Mint; secondary electroplating shows even coverage but lacks the depth of an 'Inbound' Mint Proof finish
Authentication Indicators
The 'D' mint mark and typography are consistent with US Mint strikes; the gold color is a non-standard aftermarket addition not performed by the US Mint for circulation
Origin & Manufacturing
Original coin minted in Denver, Colorado, USA; gold plating performed by a private secondary workshop
Era & Period
Modern Era (Post-1999 based on obverse design style)
Age Estimate
Circa 1999–present; the specific obverse layout suggests a Statehood or National Parks series strike
Cultural Significance
Represents the 'collectibles boom' of the early 2000s where everyday currency was modified to appeal to amateur numismatists and gift-shoppers
Condition Notes
Very Good to Fine; visible surface scratches on the plating, particularly across Washington's cheek; housed in a protective plastic sleeve to prevent further oxidation
Value Estimate
$1.00 - $5.00; while visually appealing, modifying a coin generally removes its numismatic value, and it is worth its face value (25 cents) plus a small premium for the novelty plating
Care & Maintenance
Do not use abrasive silver cleaners or metal polishes as they will quickly strip the thin gold plating to reveal the nickel underneath; store in a dry, PVC-free plastic flip
Similar Pieces
Platinum-plated quarters, colorized (painted) quarters, and genuine 19th-century gold coins (which have significantly higher weight and value)
Interesting Facts
The US Mint never released gold-plated quarters for circulation; these are created by third-party companies and sold via television infomercials or specialty catalogs during the height of the Statehood Quarter craze