The 1979-S Washington Quarter is worth anywhere from $1 in circulated condition to over $10 for top-grade proof examples, with some rare varieties fetching significantly more. If you found one of these coins or inherited a collection, you’re in the right place to find out exactly what you’re holding.
What Is the 1979-S Washington Quarter?
The 1979-S Washington Quarter was minted exclusively at the San Francisco Mint and was never intended for everyday pocket change. The “S” mintmark stands for San Francisco, and these coins were produced as part of annual proof sets sold directly to collectors by the U.S. Mint. That means they were struck with extra care using polished dies and specially prepared planchets, giving them that mirror-like finish you might notice if you look closely. Because they weren’t released into circulation, most surviving examples are in excellent condition. If you’re trying to identify your coin accurately, using the best coin identifier app can help you confirm the mintmark and grade before you try to sell or trade it.
The Two Types of 1979-S Proof Quarters
Here’s where it gets interesting for collectors. The 1979-S Washington Quarter actually comes in two distinct varieties, and the difference between them can mean real money.
The first is known as the Type 1 proof, which features a “filled S” mintmark — the curves of the letter appear slightly blobby or filled in. The second is the Type 2 proof, which has a cleaner, sharper “clear S” mintmark. The Type 2 was introduced partway through 1979 and is noticeably scarcer. While most 1979-S quarters are Type 1, savvy collectors specifically hunt for the Type 2 variety. For a detailed breakdown of 1979-S Washington Quarter values by grade and variety, numismatic pricing databases are your best friend.
CoinHix is one of the most reliable tools for checking this kind of variety-specific pricing in real time.
1979-S Washington Quarter Value Chart
Here’s a quick look at what these coins typically sell for depending on type and grade:
| Variety | Grade | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|
| Type 1 (Filled S) | PR-65 | $1 – $3 |
| Type 1 (Filled S) | PR-69 DCAM | $8 – $15 |
| Type 2 (Clear S) | PR-65 | $5 – $10 |
| Type 2 (Clear S) | PR-69 DCAM | $25 – $60+ |
Values fluctuate based on auction results and coin market trends, so always verify with current data before buying or selling.
What Makes a 1979-S Quarter More Valuable?
Not all 1979-S proof quarters are equal. Several factors can push the value of your coin up or down:
Deep Cameo contrast (DCAM): The most desirable proof coins show strong contrast between the frosted, raised design elements and the mirror-like background fields. Coins graded PR-69 DCAM or PR-70 DCAM by professional services like PCGS or NGC command the highest premiums.
Professional grading: A coin in a certified slab from a trusted grading service is almost always worth more than a raw, ungraded coin, even if both look identical to the naked eye. If you believe you have a high-grade Type 2, getting it professionally graded could be well worth the submission fee.
Original packaging: Coins that remain in their original U.S. Mint proof set holders, undamaged, tend to attract more interest from collectors.
For a comprehensive look at what the 1979-S Washington Quarter is worth across all conditions and varieties, specialized coin value resources can provide updated auction data and population reports. You can also use CoinHix to track real-time prices for proof Washington Quarters and compare recent sales in seconds.
How to Sell Your 1979-S Washington Quarter
If you’ve confirmed what you have and want to turn it into cash, here are your best options:
– Online auction platforms like eBay are great for reaching a wide audience of collectors.
– Coin shows and local dealers offer the benefit of face-to-face negotiation, though offers may be lower.
– PCGS CoinFacts or NGC Price Guide can help you set realistic expectations before listing.
For quick identification and value estimates on the go, CoinHix lets you scan and research coins from your phone, making it easy to spot whether you’re holding a Type 1 or the rarer Type 2 before committing to a sale.
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FAQ
Q: Is the 1979-S Washington Quarter rare?
A: The Type 1 version is fairly common among proof collectors, but the Type 2 (Clear S) is significantly scarcer. Both were only available through Mint proof sets and were never circulated.
Q: How do I tell the difference between Type 1 and Type 2?
A: Look closely at the “S” mintmark on the obverse. A Type 1 has a slightly mushy or filled appearance, while the Type 2 has a sharp, well-defined “S.” A magnifying glass or loupe helps a lot.
Q: Is it worth grading a 1979-S Washington Quarter?
A: If your coin appears to be a Type 2 in exceptional condition, grading could easily pay for itself. For a standard Type 1, grading costs may outweigh the added value unless it’s a gem example with perfect cameo contrast.
