As an avid coin collector, discovering a rare or valuable quarter in your pocket change is always an exciting moment. One series that has captured the attention of many numismatists is the 1983 Washington quarter. While most 1983 quarters are still only worth their face value of 25 cents, there are some highly coveted variations that can fetch significant premiums.
In this comprehensive guide, we‘ll dive deep into the 1983 quarter series, examining the key features, valuable errors and varieties, auction records, and more. Whether you‘re just starting your collection or are a seasoned pro looking to bolster your holdings, this article will equip you with the knowledge you need to identify and appreciate these fascinating coins.
Understanding the 1983 Washington Quarter Series
First, let‘s establish some basic facts about the 1983 Washington quarters. These coins were minted at three facilities – Philadelphia (no mint mark until 1980, then "P"), Denver ("D"), and San Francisco ("S"). The mintage figures for each are:
- 1983-P: 673,535,000
- 1983-D: 617,806,446
- 1983-S: 3,279,126 (proof)
All 1983 business strike quarters were minted in a copper-nickel clad composition, with a pure copper core and outer layers of 75% copper, 25% nickel. Each coin has a diameter of 24.3mm, a thickness of 1.75mm, and a weight of 5.67 grams.
Notably, 1983 represents a significant year for Washington quarters. It was only the third year that Philadelphia-minted coins bore the "P" mint mark, a practice that began in 1980. Prior to that, quarters from this mint were struck without any mint mark. This change makes the early "P" quarters especially interesting to many collectors.
Regular Strike vs Proof 1983 Quarters
Within the 1983 Washington quarter series, there are two primary types: regular strike coins and proof coins. The Philadelphia and Denver mints produced coins intended for circulation, while the San Francisco mint struck special proof coins for collectors.
Proof coins are made using highly polished planchets and dies, resulting in a mirror-like background and frosted, raised design elements. They are struck multiple times to enhance these features. In contrast, regular strike coins have a more uniform, satiny finish.
As you might expect, proof coins are generally more valuable than their regular strike counterparts due to their more limited mintage, higher quality, and collector demand. A typical 1983-S proof quarter in PR65 condition is worth around $5, compared to 25 cents for a circulated 1983-P or 1983-D coin.
Key Date Coins and Valuable Varieties
While the vast majority of 1983 quarters are common, there are a few standout examples that command substantial premiums. Chief among these are the highest-graded regular strike coins. According to PCGS, the sole finest known 1983-P quarter is a single specimen graded MS68. Similarly, there are just three 1983-D quarters certified as MS68 by PCGS. These elite-level coins are worth thousands of dollars each.
Even in lower grades, 1983 quarters can be quite valuable in pristine uncirculated condition. PCGS price guide data indicates that a 1983-P quarter graded MS67 is worth around $300, while a 1983-D in the same grade commands about $400. Proof quarters can also be valuable in perfect PR70DCAM condition, with recent auction records around the $350-$400 mark.
But some of the most exciting 1983 quarters are the error coins and varieties. Let‘s take a closer look at some of the most notable examples.
Rare and Unusual Error Coins
1983 Washington quarters are known for a few fascinating error varieties that have captured the attention of error coin collectors. Here are some of the most highly sought after:
1983-P Quarter Overstruck on Arcade Token – Arguably the most famous 1983 quarter error is this incredible rarity. Somehow, a copper-nickel planchet intended for a standard 25 cent piece ended up overstruck onto an aluminum arcade token. Traces of the underlying token design, which reads "NO CASH VALUE", can be seen on both sides. Graded MS64 by PCGS, this one-of-a-kind mint error sold for a staggering $16,800 in a 2006 Heritage Auction.
1983-P "Spitting Eagle" Die Crack – An interesting die crack error is known as the "Spitting Eagle" variety. Coins affected show a raised line that extends from the eagle‘s beak down into its neck and wing feathers on the reverse, making it appear as if the eagle is spitting. This error is only found on a portion of coins struck at the Philadelphia mint. High grade examples with this error, like a PCGS MS67, have sold for over $1,100.
Off-Center Strike Errors – Sometimes, a planchet isn‘t perfectly centered between the dies when struck, resulting in a dramatically misaligned design. Several 1983-P and 1983-D quarters are known with off-center strikes ranging from 5% to 50% or more. A dramatic 40% off-center 1983-D quarter graded MS64 by NGC brought $1,116 at a Heritage sale in 2005. The value increases with the amount of offset.
1983-P Quarter Struck on 5c Nickel Planchet – When a quarter design is inadvertently struck on the wrong planchet stock, the result is an unusual error. In this case, at least a few 1983 quarters from Philadelphia ended up struck on copper-nickel planchets intended for 5c nickels. These coins are the same composition as regular quarters, but weigh about 5 grams instead of 5.67g, and have incomplete design details due to the smaller diameter. An NGC AU58 specimen realized $1,650 in an April 2005 Heritage auction.
Other significant 1983 quarter errors include doubled dies, multi-strike errors, broadstrikes, and indents, among others. Error coin collectors are always on the hunt for these unusual pieces, and they consistently bring impressive prices when offered for sale.
Buying and Selling 1983 Quarters
If you‘re interested in acquiring some 1983 quarters for your collection or investment portfolio, there are several avenues to explore. Coin shows and local dealers are a traditional way to purchase coins in person, where you can examine them up close before buying. However, many collectors nowadays prefer the convenience and wider selection offered by online dealers and marketplaces.
Some reputable online coin retailers that may have 1983 quarters in stock include APMEX, JM Bullion, SD Bullion, and Modern Coin Mart. You can also check the inventories of major coin auction houses like Heritage Auctions, Stack‘s Bowers, and Legend Rare Coin Auctions.
For a more diverse selection, including coins being sold by collectors and independent dealers, eBay is the go-to online marketplace. You can often find great deals there, but be sure to exercise caution. Stick with established sellers who have a strong track record of positive feedback. Study the photos carefully and don‘t hesitate to ask questions about the coin‘s condition, authenticity, and any other pertinent details before placing a bid or making a purchase.
When it comes time to sell your 1983 quarters, these same marketplaces are viable options, depending on the rarity and value of your coins. For truly exceptional pieces, it‘s often best to consign them to a major auction house, as they will be able to market your coins to the widest audience of interested bidders. This can help maximize your return on investment.
The Enduring Legacy of Washington Quarters
The Washington quarter series, which began in 1932 to commemorate the 200th anniversary of George Washington‘s birth, is one of the most iconic and long-running coin designs in United States history. Over the decades, it has undergone several modifications and transformations.
From 1932 to 1964, Washington quarters were struck in a 90% silver composition. Coins dated 1964 are particularly coveted as the last regular issue 90% silver quarters. From 1965 to 1998, the composition changed to copper-nickel clad.
In 1999, the State Quarters program began, with the reverse design changing to honor each of the 50 U.S. states in the order they ratified the Constitution or were admitted to the Union. This series ran through 2008.
Additional series followed, including D.C. and U.S. Territories Quarters in 2009, America the Beautiful Quarters from 2010-2021, and a one-year-only Washington Crossing the Delaware design in 2021. As of 2022, the series is showcasing prominent American women on the reverse, and this will continue through 2025. Future planned themes include the 2026 Semiquincentennial redesign and Youth Sports from 2027-2030.
Throughout all these changes, the 1983 Washington quarters represent an important snapshot in the evolution of this denomination. They are a key part of the story that has unfolded over 90+ years, from the early days of honoring Washington to the modern era of rotating commemorative designs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are all 1983 quarters silver?
A: No, regular circulation 1983 quarters are copper-nickel clad. The last 90% silver quarters for circulation were minted in 1964.
Q: What makes the 1983-P quarters special?
A: 1983 was only the third year that the Philadelphia mint used the "P" mint mark on quarters. Before this, no mint mark was used for coins struck at this facility.
Q: How much is a 1983 quarter worth?
A: The majority of circulated 1983 quarters are worth face value – 25 cents. However, high grade uncirculated coins, specially varieties, and errors can be worth significantly more, ranging from a few dollars to thousands, depending on the specific coin.
Q: Is the 1983 quarter rare?
A: In general, 1983 quarters are quite common, with hundreds of millions minted in Philadelphia and Denver. But certain varieties, like the spitting eagle and overstruck token errors, are extremely rare, with only a handful of examples known to the collecting community.
Q: Where can I get 1983 quarters appraised?
A: For an expert opinion on your 1983 quarters, consider submitting them to a major third-party grading service like PCGS, NGC, ANACS, or ICG. Their professional numismatists can authenticate, grade, and assign a value to your coins. Alternatively, you can take them to a trusted local coin dealer or attend a coin show and ask for an appraisal from knowledgeable dealers there.
Final Thoughts
The 1983 Washington quarter series offers something for every level of coin collector, from the casual accumulator to the serious variety and error enthusiast. While most examples are still found in everyday pocket change, there are enough exciting rarities and condition-sensitive pieces to keep numismatists on the hunt for years to come.
By understanding the key dates, varieties, and errors to look for, as well as the historical context of these coins, you can build a meaningful and valuable collection of 1983 quarters. Whether you choose to pursue them as a fun hobby or a focused investment, these fascinating coins are sure to provide endless enjoyment and discovery along the way.
As you embark on your journey into the world of 1983 Washington quarters, remember to arm yourself with knowledge, patience, and a discerning eye. With the insights gleaned from this guide, you‘ll be well-equipped to identify and appreciate these numismatic treasures. Happy collecting!
