Washington Quarter
Country of Origin: United States of America
Year of Issue: 1981
Denomination: 0.25 USD
Composition: Outer layers: 75% Copper, 25% Nickel; Core: 100% Copper (Cupronickel Clad Copper)
Brief Description
A heavily toned or environmentally damaged 1981 Washington Quarter with a dark brown, copper-like patina.
Historical Significance
The Washington Quarter was first struck in 1932 to commemorate the 200th anniversary of George Washington's birth. The design by John Flanagan replaced the Standing Liberty quarter.
Estimated Value
$0.25 (face value) in current condition; MS-65 examples can reach $5-$10.
Care Instructions
Store in a PVC-free flip or capsule. Avoid cleaning, though this particular specimen appears to have significant environmental damage or heavy toning.
Mint Mark
D (Denver Mint)
Mintage & Rarity
601,096,000; Common
Weight & Diameter
5.67 g, 24.3 mm
Edge
Reeded
Apparent Grade
Very Good to Fine (VG-F) with heavy environmental staining/toning.
Obverse (Front)
Portrait of George Washington facing left, based on Jean-Antoine Houdon's bust. Inscriptions: 'LIBERTY', 'IN GOD WE TRUST', '1981', and the 'D' mint mark.
Reverse (Back)
An eagle with outspread wings perched on a bundle of arrows with two olive branches below. Inscriptions: 'UNITED STATES OF AMERICA', 'E PLURIBUS UNUM', and 'QUARTER DOLLAR'.
What Drives This Coin's Value
Condition (grade), luster, and errors. This coin is common and heavily worn/stained, limiting value to its face value.
Similar Coins
Silver Washington Quarters (1932-1964) are often compared; however, 1981 is copper-nickel clad and lacks silver content.
Authenticity & Counterfeit Red Flags
Check for correct weight (5.67g) and reeded edge. Counterfeits of common 1980s quarters are extremely rare.
Notable Varieties & Errors
No major rare varieties are widely recognized for the 1981-D, though doubling on the mint mark is sometimes sought in high grades.
Created At: 2026-06-16T17:17:51.380309