By Blake Alma
1943 Washington Quarter Value Guide
The 1943 Washington Quarter is a 90% silver U.S. quarter struck during World War II. Most examples are valued based on condition, mint mark, and the current silver melt value.
Quick Facts
- Year: 1943
- Denomination: Quarter Dollar
- Series: Washington Quarter
- Composition: 90% Silver, 10% Copper
- Weight: 6.25 grams
- Diameter: 24.3 mm
- Edge: Reeded
- Designer: John Flanagan
Mint Marks
The 1943 Washington Quarter was struck at three U.S. Mint locations:
- Philadelphia Mint (No mint mark)
- Denver Mint (D mint mark)
- San Francisco Mint (S mint mark)
Mint marks are found on the reverse of the coin, below the wreath and above the words QUARTER DOLLAR.
1943 Washington Quarter Value
Values vary by condition and mint mark. Circulated examples often trade near silver-based pricing, while higher grades can bring strong premiums.
- Good (G-4): $6 – $7
- Fine (F-12): $7 – $10
- Extremely Fine (EF-40): $10 – $18
- About Uncirculated (AU-50): $20 – $40
- Mint State (MS-60+): $50 – $400+
Coins graded higher (especially MS-64 and above) can sell for significantly more depending on eye appeal and strike quality.
Silver Content
- Actual Silver Weight: 0.1808 troy ounces
Because the 1943 quarter is silver, many collectors check the current silver melt value to estimate the base worth of the coin before factoring in condition and collector premiums.
What Impacts Value Most
- Condition/Grade: The biggest price driver (wear and luster matter)
- Mint Mark: Some mint issues are tougher in high grade
- Eye Appeal: Clean surfaces and strong strike increase demand
- Originality: Natural toning and uncleaned surfaces typically sell for more
Common Errors and What They’re Worth
Error value depends heavily on severity and how visible the mistake is. Common errors include:
- Off-center strike: Often worth more as the date remains visible
- Broadstrike: Rim expansion without a collar
- Clipped planchet: Missing metal along the edge
- Struck-through: Debris or grease causing missing details
- Die cracks / cuds: Raised lines or blobs from damaged dies
Many error coins sell at a premium over standard pricing, especially if the error is dramatic and the coin is in higher condition.
How to Identify a 1943 Washington Quarter
- Confirm the date (1943) on the obverse
- Check the reverse for a mint mark (or none for Philadelphia)
- Look at the edge: a silver quarter typically shows a solid silver-colored edge (no copper stripe)
- Inspect high points for wear: Washington’s cheek and hair, and the eagle’s chest and feathers
Is the 1943 Washington Quarter Valuable?
Most circulated 1943 Washington Quarters are valued close to their silver melt value, but Mint State examples and error coins can be worth much more. Condition and originality are key.