Price Guide for 1940 Quarter Variants
This guide presents price ranges for variants from three sources: eBay sales, third-party auctions, and PCGS guides. Values are shown for various conditions, allowing collectors to compare across different market segments. Price estimates may vary between sources, especially for rarer variants.
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $9.00 – $30.00Uncirculated: $14.00 – $19,975.00
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eBayCirculated: $7.45 – $79.00Uncirculated: $6.50 – $875.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $8.00 – $26.00Uncirculated: $20.00 – $8,500.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $28.00 – $99.00Uncirculated: $63.00 – $5,520.00
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eBayCirculated: $13.95 – $500.00Uncirculated: $79.99 – $17,500.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $8.00 – $132.00Uncirculated: $140.00 – $3,150.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $33.00 – $8,625.00
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eBayCirculated: $25.69 – $230.00Uncirculated: $20.50 – $910.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $55.00 – $15,000.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $10.00 – $33.00Uncirculated: $11.00 – $10,200.00
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eBayCirculated: $5.50 – $26.99Uncirculated: $14.38 – $1,950.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $8.00 – $28.00Uncirculated: $32.00 – $13,000.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $780.00 – $2,880.00
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eBayCirculated: $67.66
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $160.00 – $3,500.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $188.00 – $207.00Uncirculated: $235.00 – $2,585.00
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eBayUncirculated: $338.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $24.00 – $130.00Uncirculated: $165.00 – $2,750.00
Design and Specifications of the 1940 Quarter
The 1940 Quarter continued the Washington Quarter design, which was introduced in 1932 to commemorate the 200th anniversary of George Washington’s birth. This coin series replaced the Standing Liberty Quarter and has become one of the longest-running coin designs in U.S. history.
The year 1940 was significant as it marked the beginning of the United States’ preparation for potential involvement in World War II, though the country had not yet officially entered the conflict.
| Weight | 6.25 grams |
|---|---|
| Diameter | 24.3 mm |
| Mint Marks | P (no mint mark), D, S |
| Composition | 90% silver, 10% copper |
| Obverse Design | Standing Liberty, designed by Hermon A. MacNeil |
| Reverse Design | Bald eagle with wings spread, designed by John Flanagan |
Rarity Factors and Value Drivers
The condition of 1940 Quarters significantly impacts their value, particularly for higher-grade examples. Coins in uncirculated condition (MS60 and above) are considerably more valuable than circulated specimens. Key areas to examine include the high points of Washington’s hair and the eagle’s breast feathers, which are prone to wear.
Full strike examples with sharp details, especially on the eagle’s feathers, are highly prized. Luster quality is crucial for uncirculated coins, with premium prices paid for pieces exhibiting full, cartwheel luster. Toning can also add value if it’s attractive and natural.
Mintage: 35,704,000
Rarity Scale: Common
Circulation Status: Widely Circulated
Preservation Rarity: Common in grades up to MS65, scarcer in higher grades
Varieties Errors: None significant
Market Demand: Moderate, popular as part of the Washington Quarter series
Mintage: 2,797,600
Rarity Scale: Uncommon
Circulation Status: Moderate Circulation
Preservation Rarity: Scarce in grades MS65 and above
Varieties Errors: None significant
Market Demand: Moderate to High, due to lower mintage
Mintage: 8,244,000
Rarity Scale: Common
Circulation Status: Widely Circulated
Preservation Rarity: Scarce in grades MS66 and above
Varieties Errors: None significant
Market Demand: Moderate
While not considered a key date, the 1940-D Quarter is more valuable due to its lower mintage. Collectors often seek complete sets of Washington Quarters, which maintains steady demand for this year.
The silver content of these coins adds intrinsic value, which can fluctuate with precious metal prices. For high-grade examples, the presence of full split bands on the eagle’s legs can significantly increase value.
Proofs were not minted for this year, making high-grade business strikes particularly desirable for type set collectors. Any major mint errors or die varieties, though rare for this year, would command a premium if discovered.
