By Blake Alma
1984 Washington Quarter Value Guide
The 1984 Washington Quarter is a copper-nickel clad U.S. quarter produced after the low–Mint Set years of 1982 and 1983. While more available in high grades than those years, value is still driven by condition, mint mark, strike quality, and collectible errors rather than metal content.
Quick Facts
- Year: 1984
- Denomination: Quarter Dollar
- Series: Washington Quarter
- Composition: Copper-Nickel Clad (Outer layers: 75% copper, 25% nickel; Core: pure copper)
- Weight: 5.67 grams
- Diameter: 24.3 mm
- Edge: Reeded (copper visible on edge)
- Designer: John Flanagan
Mint Marks
The 1984 Washington Quarter was struck at two U.S. Mint locations:
- Philadelphia Mint (No mint mark)
- Denver Mint (D mint mark)
Mint marks are located on the obverse, just to the right of Washington’s ponytail.
1984 Washington Quarter Value
Because this coin contains no silver, most circulated examples are worth face value. Higher-grade coins bring premiums.
- Circulated (Good–Fine): Face value ($0.25)
- Extremely Fine: $0.50 – $1
- About Uncirculated: $1 – $3
- Mint State (MS-60+): $4 – $25+
Coins graded MS-65 and higher can sell for more, especially well-struck examples.
Clad Composition and Melt Value
The 1984 Washington Quarter contains no precious metal. Its melt value is minimal, so collector value comes from grade, eye appeal, and demand rather than metal prices.
What Impacts Value Most
- Condition / Grade: The primary pricing factor
- Mint Mark: Denver issues can be tougher in high grades
- Strike Quality: Sharper details increase desirability
- Originality: Uncleaned coins with original luster are preferred
Common Errors and What They’re Worth
The 1984 quarter is known for a variety of collectible error types.
- Off-center strikes
- Broadstrikes
- Clipped planchets
- Struck-through grease or debris
- Wrong planchet errors (rare and valuable)
Major errors can sell for hundreds to thousands of dollars, depending on severity and condition.
How to Identify a 1984 Washington Quarter
- Confirm the date (1984) on the obverse
- Look for a mint mark near Washington’s ponytail (or none for Philadelphia)
- Check the edge for a visible copper stripe
- Examine luster and contact marks
Is the 1984 Washington Quarter Valuable?
Most circulated 1984 Washington Quarters are worth face value, but Mint State examples and major error coins can be worth significantly more. Collector demand is strongest for high-grade, well-struck coins.