The 2021-D Washington Crossing the Delaware Quarter stands as a unique and significant piece in U.S. numismatics. Issued exclusively in 2021, this quarter bridges the gap between the “America the Beautiful” series and the “American Women Quarters” program, making it a sought-after item for collectors.
Design and Specifications
- Obverse: Features the classic left-facing portrait of President George Washington, originally designed by John Flanagan in 1932. Inscriptions include “LIBERTY,” “IN GOD WE TRUST,” and the mint mark “D” for the Denver Mint.
- Reverse: Depicts the historic scene of General Washington commanding his troops during the Delaware River crossing on December 25, 1776, a pivotal moment in the American Revolutionary War. This design was crafted by Benjamin Sowards and sculpted by Michael Gaudioso.
- Composition: Composed of an outer layer of 75% copper and 25% nickel, bonded to a pure copper core.
- Weight: 5.67 grams
- Diameter: 24.26 mm
- Edge: Reeded
Mintage and Rarity
The Denver Mint produced approximately 865,400,000 of these quarters in 2021. Despite this high mintage, its status as a one-year-only issue enhances its appeal among collectors. Notably, the Philadelphia Mint produced about 838,400,000 of the same design, while the San Francisco Mint struck 490,829 clad proof quarters and 350,891 silver proof quarters.
Value and Collectibility
The value of the 2021-D Washington Crossing the Delaware Quarter varies based on its condition and any unique errors:
- Circulated Condition: Typically holds a face value of $0.25.
- Uncirculated Condition:
- MS63 Grade: Approximately $0.75
- MS65 Grade: Around $1.00
- MS66 to MS70 Grades: Can fetch higher prices, with some MS69 graded coins selling for up to $995 in auctions.
- Proof Versions:
- Clad Proof (2021-S): Valued around $4.50 in PR66DC condition and up to $15 in PR69DC condition.
- Silver Proof (2021-S): Worth at least its silver content, with a melt value of approximately $6.68. In PR66DC condition, it’s valued around $12, and in PR69DC condition, about $20.
Notable Error Coins
Certain mint errors can significantly increase a coin’s value:
- Crown Die Chip Error: A die chip on Washington’s crown on the reverse side. Such errors have fetched up to $70.
- Doubled Die Obverse Error: Doubling visible on inscriptions like “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST.” These can be valued up to $300.
- Misaligned Die Error: Where the design is off-center. These errors can be worth around $16.
Summary of 2021-D Washington Crossing the Delaware Quarter
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Obverse Design | Classic portrait of George Washington by John Flanagan |
| Reverse Design | Washington crossing the Delaware River by Benjamin Sowards and Michael Gaudioso |
| Composition | 75% copper, 25% nickel clad |
| Weight | 5.67 grams |
| Diameter | 24.26 mm |
| Edge | Reeded |
| Mintage | 865,400,000 (Denver Mint) |
| Circulated Value | $0.25 |
| Uncirculated Value | $0.75 (MS63) to $1.00 (MS65); higher for MS66-MS70 |
| Notable Errors | Crown Die Chip, Doubled Die Obverse, Misaligned Die |
Collecting Tips
- Condition Matters: Aim for coins in higher mint state grades (MS66 and above) to maximize value.
- Seek Proof Versions: Proof coins, especially silver proofs, are more valuable and have a limited mintage.
- Identify Errors: Error coins are rare and can significantly increase a collection’s worth.
In conclusion, the 2021-D Washington Crossing the Delaware Quarter is a noteworthy addition to any collection, offering historical significance and potential for value appreciation, especially in higher grades and with unique errors.
Why is the 2021-D Washington Crossing the Delaware Quarter significant?
It’s a one-year-only issue that serves as a transitional piece between major quarter series, commemorating a pivotal event in American history.
What factors affect the value of this quarter?
Condition (circulated vs. uncirculated), grade (MS63, MS65, etc.), presence of errors, and whether it’s a proof or standard issue all influence its value.
How can I identify a valuable error on this quarter?
Look for anomalies like die chips, doubled inscriptions, or misalignments. Consulting a professional grader or numismatist can provide accurate identification.