1988 P Washington Quarter Dollar
Coin/Bullion · United States Mint (Philadelphia Facility)
Pattern: Washington Quarter (Eagle Reverse type)
Type
Coin/Bullion
Maker
United States Mint (Philadelphia Facility)
Material
Copper-nickel clad copper; no actual silver content (outer layers 75% copper, 25% nickel; center 100% copper)
Dimensions
Diameter: 24.26 mm (0.955 in); Thickness: 1.75 mm; Weight: 5.67 grams
Description
A standard circulating 25-cent piece from the United States Mint. While visually 'silvery' due to its nickel content, this was struck over two decades after the US moved away from silver circulating coinage in 1964.
Key Features
P mint mark above the date, diagnostic profile of Washington, reeded edge showing copper core
Material & Composition
Copper-nickel clad copper; no actual silver content (outer layers 75% copper, 25% nickel; center 100% copper)
Finish & Decoration
Standard circulation strike; features John Flanagan's profile of George Washington and an eagle with outstretched wings on the reverse
Hallmarks & Stamps
P Mint Mark (Philadelphia), 'LIBERTY', 'IN GOD WE TRUST', '1988' date stamp
Construction Details
Triple-layered clad construction, die-struck on a planchet with a reeded edge
Functional Features
Reeded edge (119 reeds) to prevent counterfeiting and clipping
Handle & Grip Details
Not applicable (Circulating currency)
Craftsmanship Details
Machine die-struck; standard industrial quality for high-volume government currency production.
Authentication Indicators
Clear strike of the Philadelphia 'P' mark, standard weight and diameter, visible copper stripe on the edge
Origin & Manufacturing
United States of America; Philadelphia Mint
Era & Period
Modern Era (United States 20th Century coinage)
Age Estimate
36 years (dated 1988)
Cultural Significance
Utility currency representing the mid-to-late 20th century economic era of the United States.
Condition Notes
Circulated condition; visible surface wear, minor bag marks, and light scratches consistent with general use. Grade: Fine to Very Fine.
Value Estimate
Face value: $0.25 USD; Numismatic value: $0.25 - $0.50 in current condition.
Care & Maintenance
No special cleaning required; cleaning of coins often reduces numismatic value. Store in a dry environment.
Similar Pieces
1964 Washington Quarter (90% Silver), 1988-S Proof Quarter (Clad), Statehood Quarters (post-1999).
Interesting Facts
The 'P' mint mark was only added to quarters starting in 1980; prior to that, Philadelphia quarters typically bore no mint mark.