2005 California State Quarter
Country of Origin: United States of America
Year of Issue: 2005
Denomination: 0.25 USD
Composition: 91.67% Copper, 8.33% Nickel (Clad)
Brief Description
A copper-nickel clad quarter dollar featuring John Muir and Yosemite Valley on the reverse.
Historical Significance
The 31st coin released in the 50 State Quarters Program, honoring California's admission to the Union in 1850.
Estimated Value
$0.25 in circulated condition, $1.00-$5.00 in high uncirculated (MS-65+) grades.
Care Instructions
Handle by the edges to avoid fingerprints; store in a dry environment using PVC-free holders. Do not clean metal.
Mint Mark
P (Philadelphia) or D (Denver); note that S (San Francisco) is for proof versions.
Mintage & Rarity
Common; total mintage exceeded 520 million across Denver and Philadelphia.
Weight & Diameter
5.67 grams, 24.26 mm
Edge
Reeded
Apparent Grade
Circulated / Very Fine (VF) - showing moderate wear on high points of Yosemite and Washington's hair.
Obverse (Front)
Restored portrait of George Washington by William Cousins, based on Houdon's design, with 'UNITED STATES OF AMERICA' and 'QUARTER DOLLAR'.
Reverse (Back)
Naturalist John Muir gazing at Half Dome in Yosemite Valley; features a California Condor and Sequoia trees. Designed by Garrett Burke and engraved by Don Everhart.
What Drives This Coin's Value
Condition/grade and the presence of mint errors like 'Double Die' or 'Dropped Letter' (though rare for this issue).
Similar Coins
Often confused with other State Quarters or the America the Beautiful series due to similar obverse designs.
Authenticity & Counterfeit Red Flags
Check for correct weight (5.67g) and magnetic properties (should not be magnetic). Look for sharp details in the sequoia needles.
Notable Varieties & Errors
No major high-value varieties are widely recognized for the California issue compared to others like Wisconsin.
Created At: 2026-06-13T20:53:14.147059