– Washington Quarter (1932 - 1998)

The Washington Quarter, minted from 1932 to 1998, is one of the most iconic and enduring coins in American numismatic history. 

Introduced to commemorate the 200th anniversary of George Washington's birth, the Washington Quarter features a timeless design that has remained largely unchanged for decades. 

The obverse of the Washington Quarter showcases a left-facing bust of George Washington, the first President of the United States. This iconic image was based on a sculpture by artist Laura Gardin Fraser and is widely recognized and beloved by Americans across the nation. 

The inscription "LIBERTY" is inscribed above Washington's profile, and the motto "IN GOD WE TRUST" is placed to the right. 

On the reverse of the coin is an image of an eagle with outstretched wings, perched upon a bundle of arrows and an olive branch.  

This design, created by John Flanagan, is a classic symbol of America's strength and commitment to peace. The motto "E PLURIBUS UNUM" is inscribed above the eagle, and the denomination "QUARTER DOLLAR" is below. 

The Washington Quarter was initially minted using a composition of 90% silver and 10% copper, giving it a distinctive appearance and value.  

However, beginning in 1965, the composition was changed to a copper-nickel clad alloy due to rising silver prices. Despite this change, the Washington Quarter continued to be a staple of everyday transactions across the nation. 

Today, the 1854-S Coronet Head Gold $5 Half Eagle remains a prized addition to numismatic collections, cherished for its historical significance, rarity, and timeless beauty. It stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of the California Gold Rush and the rich history of American coinage. 

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