Price Guide for 1956 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 PriceUncirculated: $9.00 – $8,518.75
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eBayCirculated: $15.00Uncirculated: $3.99 – $1,250.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $6.00 – $9.00Uncirculated: $10.00 – $5,250.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $7.00 – $5,280.00
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eBayCirculated: $6.50 – $22.72Uncirculated: $0.99 – $2,950.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $6.00 – $9.00Uncirculated: $10.00 – $11,000.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $8.00 – $588.00
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eBayCirculated: $16.50 – $34.99Uncirculated: $4.99 – $1,000.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $5.00Uncirculated: $8.00 – $150.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $30.00Uncirculated: $25.00 – $399.50
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eBayUncirculated: $54.00 – $225.27
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $15.00 – $45.00Uncirculated: $50.00 – $450.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $26.00 – $3,818.75
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eBayCirculated: $55.00 – $65.00Uncirculated: $48.75 – $899.97
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $22.00 – $1,250.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $41.00 – $2,400.00
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eBayCirculated: $25.99 – $75.00Uncirculated: $16.99 – $1,250.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $10.00 – $25.00Uncirculated: $30.00 – $3,500.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $13.00 – $666.00
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eBayUncirculated: $9.99 – $314.90
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $8.00 – $235.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $74.00 – $576.00
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eBayUncirculated: $62.98 – $1,195.95
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $44.00 – $800.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $126.00 – $408.00
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eBayUncirculated: $150.00 – $379.99
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $55.00 – $600.00
Design and Specifications of the 1956 Quarter
The 1956 Quarter continues the Washington Quarter series, which began in 1932 to commemorate the 200th anniversary of George Washington’s birth. By 1956, the quarter had become a staple of American coinage, with its design remaining largely unchanged since its introduction. This year saw continued high production numbers, reflecting the strong post-war economy and increased demand for coinage in circulation.
| Weight | 6.25 grams |
|---|---|
| Diameter | 24.3 mm |
| Mint Marks | D, P (no mint mark) |
| Composition | 90% silver, 10% copper |
| Obverse Design | Portrait of George Washington facing left, designed by John Flanagan |
| Reverse Design | Eagle with spread wings, designed by John Flanagan |
Rarity Factors and Value Drivers
Condition plays a crucial role in determining the value of 1956 Quarters. While these coins are common in circulated grades, specimens in uncirculated condition, particularly those grading MS65 and above, can command significant premiums. Collectors particularly value coins with strong strikes, full luster, and minimal contact marks.
For silver quarters of this era, attractive toning can also enhance value, especially if it’s colorful and evenly distributed. However, any signs of cleaning or harsh treatment can significantly reduce a coin’s desirability and value.
Mintage: 44,144,000
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, primarily for high-grade examples
Mintage: 32,334,500
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, primarily for high-grade examples
The silver content of the 1956 Quarter adds intrinsic value beyond its numismatic worth. With 90% silver composition, these coins have an inherent precious metal value that fluctuates with the silver market.
Full Steps examples are highly sought after by specialists. These are coins where the steps of Monticello on the reverse are fully defined, indicating a strong strike. Such coins, especially in high grades, can command significant premiums.
While not particularly rare, 1956 Quarters in pristine condition are becoming increasingly scarce as many have been melted for their silver content over the years. This gradual reduction in supply may impact future values, especially for high-grade specimens.
