1992 United States Washington Quarter (Cupro-Nickel Clad)
Coin / Numismatic Object · United States Mint; produced at either Philadelphia (no mint mark/P) or Denver (D) facilities.
Pattern: Washington Quarter (John Flanagan design)
Type
Coin / Numismatic Object
Maker
United States Mint; produced at either Philadelphia (no mint mark/P) or Denver (D) facilities.
Material
Cupro-Nickel Clad Copper; outer layers of 75% copper and 25% nickel bonded to a core of pure copper. Note: This specific year and color indicate it is not silver (silver quarters were only produced in proof sets for 1992).
Dimensions
Diameter: 24.26 mm (0.955 in); Thickness: 1.75 mm; Standard Weight: 5.67 grams.
Description
A standard circulation United States quarter dollar featuring the iconic John Flanagan portrait of George Washington. This specimen shows significant circulation wear, including flattening of the hair details and many small contact marks (bag marks) on the cheek and field.
Key Features
The 1992 date and the visible copper-colored core on the edge (indicated by the duller gray tone) distinguish this as a base-metal clad coin rather than a silver composition.
Material & Composition
Cupro-Nickel Clad Copper; outer layers of 75% copper and 25% nickel bonded to a core of pure copper. Note: This specific year and color indicate it is not silver (silver quarters were only produced in proof sets for 1992).
Finish & Decoration
Circulated strike with a satin-to-matte finish from wear. Features a relief bust of George Washington on the obverse and an American Eagle on the reverse (implied by type), with reeded edges.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Inscriptions: "LIBERTY", "IN GOD WE TRUST", and date "1992". Mint mark (if present) would be to the right of Washington's ponytail. Small JF initials at the base of the neck for designer John Flanagan.
Construction Details
Planchet preparation followed by high-pressure steam-driven die striking (modern mass production minting).
Functional Features
Reeded edge to prevent clipping/counterfeiting; legal tender for 25 cents in the United States.
Handle & Grip Details
None; standard flat coin rim.
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-struck with precision dies; though mass-produced, the design maintains high aesthetic standards for national currency.
Authentication Indicators
Weight, diameter, and strike characteristics are consistent with genuine U.S. Mint production. The 'sandwich' layers visible on the edge are the primary indicator of clad (non-silver) composition.
Origin & Manufacturing
United States of America; Philadelphia or Denver Mint.
Era & Period
Modern Era / Late 20th Century (Post-1964 coinage transition).
Age Estimate
Produced in 1992 (approximately 32 years old).
Cultural Significance
Represents the primary fractional currency of the United States, used extensively in commerce and vending before the rise of digital payments.
Condition Notes
Grade: Good to Very Good (Circulated). Visible heavy wear on the high points of the bust, significant surface scratches, and grime buildup consistent with pocket change.
Value Estimate
Face value ($0.25). In this circulated condition, it carries no significant numismatic premium.
Care & Maintenance
As a circulated base-metal coin, no special care is required. Collectors generally advise against cleaning coins as it removes the natural patina and can lower numismatic value.
Similar Pieces
1992-S Silver Proof Quarter (90% silver, mirrored finish), 1932-1964 Washington Quarters (90% silver throughout), and various 1992 commemorative coins.
Interesting Facts
In 1992, the U.S. Mint began offering Silver Proof Sets for collectors, but these were never intended for circulation. This circulated 1992 quarter is the standard copper-nickel version.