The 1994-P Washington Quarter is part of the long-running series of U.S. quarters featuring George Washington. While it may seem like just another coin, collectors pay close attention to its details, history, design, and value. In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about the 1994-P Washington Quarter.
History and Production of the 1994-P Washington Quarter
The 1994-P Washington Quarter was minted in Philadelphia, with a total of 825.6 million produced. This makes it a relatively common coin. Despite its abundance, collectors are still keen to add it to their collections due to its place in U.S. coinage history and some interesting design features. Additionally, this quarter was included in the 1994 United States Mint Uncirculated Coin Set, which also included other circulating coins of the year.
Design and Features of the 1994-P Washington Quarter
The design of the 1994-P Washington Quarter follows the original design by John Flanagan. The obverse shows George Washington’s bust, while the reverse features a heraldic eagle with outstretched wings. However, one notable feature of the 1994-P Washington Quarter is its “Spaghetti Hair,” a design change starting in 1991 that made Washington’s hair look less realistic.
Here’s a table summarizing key design features of the 1994-P Washington Quarter:
Feature | Description |
---|---|
Obverse Design | George Washington’s bust, based on a bust by French sculptor Jean-Antoine Houdon (1785). Includes the inscription “LIBERTY” and the date “1994.” |
Reverse Design | Heraldic eagle with outstretched wings, perched on a bundle of arrows and olive branches. Inscriptions: “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” and “E PLURIBUS UNUM.” |
Mintmark | “P” mintmark, indicating it was struck at the Philadelphia Mint. |
Edge | Reeded edge. |
Design Changes | The “Spaghetti Hair” issue: Washington’s hair looks more like spaghetti due to design changes starting in 1991. |
How Much is the 1994-P Washington Quarter Worth?
While the 1994-P Washington Quarter is not rare, its value can vary depending on its condition. Most of these coins in circulation are worth just 25 cents, but those in better condition can fetch higher prices.
Here’s a table showing the possible values of the 1994-P Washington Quarter in different conditions:
Condition | Value | Notes |
---|---|---|
Circulated | $0.25 | Common in circulation; most are in used condition. |
Uncirculated (Mint Set) | $1 to $2 | Coins from mint sets in good condition. |
MS67 Grade | $50 to $150 | High-grade coins in perfect condition. |
PCGS MS68 | $3,000 to $8,156.25 | Rare, top-quality coins; highest price achieved for a fully brilliant coin. |
PCGS MS66 | $26 to $50 | Slightly lower grades that are still sought after by collectors. |
The highest price ever paid for a 1994-P quarter was $8,156.25 for a coin in PCGS MS68 grade. These top-quality coins are very rare, and the value decreases for coins with lower grades.
Finding and Collecting the 1994-P Washington Quarter
Collectors can find 1994-P Washington Quarters in rolls from the bank or through mint sets. Coin roll hunting is a great way to search for specific coins, and you might even come across uncirculated coins that could be valuable.
While finding high-quality 1994-P quarters in circulation is rare, it’s still possible with some effort. If you’re looking for a mint-condition coin, buying a 1994 United States Mint Uncirculated Coin Set is a good option. These sets are still available for a low price and can be a good starting point for new collectors.
Conclusion
The 1994-P Washington Quarter is a great addition to any coin collection. While it’s not particularly rare, its design, historical significance, and market value make it an interesting coin for collectors. Whether you’re just starting your collection or are looking for a specific coin, the 1994-P Washington Quarter is a coin worth knowing about.
FAQ’s
What is the value of a 1994-P Washington Quarter?
The value of a 1994-P Washington Quarter varies based on its condition. In circulated condition, it’s worth 25 cents, but uncirculated coins can sell for $1 to $2, and higher-grade coins (such as MS67) can be worth between $50 and $150. Rare MS68 coins have sold for over $8,000.
What is the “Spaghetti Hair” on the 1994-P Washington Quarter?
The “Spaghetti Hair” refers to the design changes made to Washington’s hair on the quarter starting in 1991. These changes made his hair appear less realistic and more stylized, which collectors noticed over time.
Where can I find a 1994-P Washington Quarter?
You can find 1994-P Washington Quarters in rolls from banks or through 1994 United States Mint Uncirculated Coin Sets. Coin roll hunting is a popular method for finding these coins, though most will be in circulated condition.