1986-P Washington Quarter Dollar
Coin/Bullion · United States Mint (Philadelphia)
Pattern: Washington Quarter (Eagle Reverse)
Type
Coin/Bullion
Maker
United States Mint (Philadelphia)
Material
Copper-Nickel Clad (Outer layers of 75% copper, 25% nickel over a pure copper core). Contains NO silver.
Dimensions
Diameter: 24.26 mm; Weight: 5.67 grams; Thickness: 1.75 mm.
Description
A standard circulating 1986 Washington Quarter. While it possesses a metallic silver-colored exterior, it is a base-metal clad coin intended for general circulation rather than a precious metal collector's item. The design by John Flanagan was originally introduced in 1932 to commemorate the 200th anniversary of Washington's birth.
Key Features
Philadelphia 'P' mint mark; 1986 date; copper-colored stripe visible on the edge (the signature of a clad coin).
Material & Composition
Copper-Nickel Clad (Outer layers of 75% copper, 25% nickel over a pure copper core). Contains NO silver.
Finish & Decoration
Business strike with a matte/circulated luster. Features the left-facing profile of George Washington and an eagle with outstretched wings on the reverse.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Mint mark 'P' (Philadelphia) located on the obverse to the right of Washington's queue; 'LIBERTY' and 'IN GOD WE TRUST' mottoes; Date '1986'.
Construction Details
Die-struck on a planchet at a high-speed machine press; featuring a reeded edge.
Functional Features
Standardized currency for use in commerce; reeded edge serves to prevent debasement and assist the visually impaired.
Handle & Grip Details
N/A (Reeded edge provides tactile grip for mechanical sorting and handling).
Craftsmanship Details
Mass-produced via industrial hub-and-die process; high-relief detail on the hair and eagle feathers typical of the late 80s minting standards.
Authentication Indicators
Correct weight for a clad quarter; presence of the 'P' mint mark introduced for quarters in 1980; copper core visible on edge.
Origin & Manufacturing
United States of America; Philadelphia Mint.
Era & Period
Modern American Numismatics (1932-1998 design era).
Age Estimate
Dated 1986; 38 years old as of 2024.
Cultural Significance
Represents the standard unit of American currency used in vending machines, laundromats, and daily retail transactions during the late 20th century.
Condition Notes
Circulated condition with visible contact marks, minor scratches, and surface wear. Luster is dull. Grade estimate: Very Fine to Extremely Fine.
Value Estimate
Face value ($0.25 USD). In uncirculated Mint State (MS65+), it may command $5-$20, but circulated examples carry no numismatic premium.
Care & Maintenance
No specific care required for a circulated base-metal coin. Avoid acidic cleaners; store in a dry environment to prevent 'zinc rot' or environmental toning.
Similar Pieces
1964 Washington Quarter (90% Silver - lacks the copper edge); 1976 Bicentennial Quarter (Special reverse design).
Interesting Facts
1986 was a year of relatively lower mintage for quarters compared to the late 1990s, with 551 million produced in Philadelphia, yet they remain extremely common in change today.