1941 United States Washington Quarter Dollar
Coin/Bullion · United States Mint (Philadelphia), designed by John Flanagan
Pattern: Washington Quarter (Standard Circulation Design), 1932-1998
Type
Coin/Bullion
Maker
United States Mint (Philadelphia), designed by John Flanagan
Material
90% Silver, 10% Copper (Coin Silver)
Dimensions
Diameter: 24.3 mm; Weight: 6.25 grams (contains 0.1808 troy oz of pure silver)
Description
A classic specimen of American silver coinage produced during the height of the Washington Quarter's silver era. The obverse depicts the profile of George Washington based on the 1785 bust by Houdon, while the reverse features a spread-winged eagle on a bundle of arrows with olive branches below. This specific year represents a high-production but historically significant pre-WWII entry.
Key Features
Pure silver content, high-relief striking compared to modern clad quarters, 1941 date, and reeded edge
Material & Composition
90% Silver, 10% Copper (Coin Silver)
Finish & Decoration
Struck business strike finish featuring George Washington bust on obverse and Heraldic Eagle on reverse
Hallmarks & Stamps
United States Mottoes 'IN GOD WE TRUST', 'LIBERTY', 1941 date stamp; absence of mint mark indicates Philadelphia Mint
Construction Details
Machine-struck on an induction-heated planchet using hardened steel dies
Functional Features
Reeded edge for anti-clipping/anti-counterfeiting; legal tender currency specification
Handle & Grip Details
Not applicable (coinage)
Craftsmanship Details
Master-die engraving showcasing John Flanagan’s neoclassical aesthetic; uniform reeding and deep-cavity profile strike
Authentication Indicators
Weight consistency (6.25g), crispness of the '1941' numerals, absence of 'copper sandwich' edge typical of post-1964 clad coinage
Origin & Manufacturing
USA; Philadelphia Mint workshop following US Treasury standards
Era & Period
Early 20th Century / World War II Era (Classical Numismatic Design)
Age Estimate
Manufactured in 1941; approximately 83 years old
Cultural Significance
Represents the standard unit of trade in the mid-century US economy and symbol of American silver-standard monetary policy
Condition Notes
Circulated condition (Very Good to Fine range); visible surface wear on the hair and eagle chest; light tarnishing and fingerprint oils present
Value Estimate
$4.50 - $7.50 (Silver melt value approximately $4.30 - $5.00 depending on spot price, with slight numismatic premium)
Care & Maintenance
Do not clean or polish as it destroys numismatic value; store in PVC-free flips or capsules to prevent sulfur-induced toning
Similar Pieces
1941-D (Denver) and 1941-S (San Francisco) Quarters, distinguishable by mint marks on the reverse tail-feathers
Interesting Facts
The Washington quarter was originally meant to be a one-year commemorative for Washington's 200th birthday in 1932, but it was so popular it replaced the Standing Liberty quarter permanently