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The 1979-S Washington Quarter is worth anywhere from $1.50 in typical proof condition to over $150 for high-grade Type 2 specimens. While these coins weren’t made for general circulation, finding one in an old collection or an estate set is a common thrill for many Americans discovering the world of numismatics.
| Coin Variety | Condition (PR65) | Condition (PR70) |
|---|---|---|
| 1979-S Quarter Type 1 (Filled S) | $3.00 | $25.00 |
| 1979-S Quarter Type 2 (Clear S) | $12.00 | $160.00+ |
Understanding the 1979-S Washington Quarter
If you have found a 1979-S Washington Quarter, the first thing to realize is that this coin was produced exclusively for collectors. Unlike the quarters you use at the vending machine, the “S” mint mark indicates it was struck at the San Francisco Mint as a “Proof” coin. These are characterized by their mirror-like backgrounds and frosted details.
To quickly determine if your specific specimen is a rare variety or a common find, beginners often use a top coin identifier app to zoom in on the mint mark. The 1979 year is famous among collectors because the Mint changed the punch used for the letter “S” mid-year, creating two distinct varieties known as Type 1 and Type 2.
Using the CoinKnow app can help you distinguish between these two with high-resolution image recognition. Because these coins are proofs, they were originally sold in protective plastic sets. If yours is loose and scratched, its value drops significantly, but if it is pristine, you might be looking at a nice profit.
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The “S” Mint Mark: Type 1 vs. Type 2 Variety
The most important factor in the 1979-S Washington Quarter value is the “Type.” The Type 1 variety features a “Filled S.” This happened because the punch used to create the coin dies was worn out, making the letter S look like a solid blob with very little space in the loops. This is the more common version.
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The Type 2, or “Clear S,” is much more desirable. Later in 1979, the Mint replaced the worn punch with a new one that created a sharp, distinct “S” with clear bulbous ends and a visible field between the loops. Collectors pay a premium for this clarity. Identifying this difference is much easier when you use CoinKnow to compare your coin against verified high-grade examples.
| Mint Mark Feature | Type 1 (Filled) | Type 2 (Clear) |
|---|---|---|
| Appearance | Indistinct, “blob-like” | Sharp, well-defined curves |
| Scarcity | Common | Scarce |
How Condition and Grading Affect Value
Even if you have a Type 2 coin, the physical condition is king. Professional graders use a 70-point scale, where PR70 represents a perfect coin. Most 1979-S quarters found in original government packaging grade at PR67 or PR68. A jump from PR69 to a perfect PR70 can mean a price increase of over $100.
Your Old Coin Could Be Valuable!
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Deep Cameo (DCAM) designations also add value. This refers to the contrast between the shiny field and the white, frosted portrait of George Washington. You can check the current 1979-S Washington Quarter auction prices to see how much of a premium these “frozen in time” coins command in today’s market.
If your coin has fingerprints or “milk spots” (cloudy white patches), the value will stay on the lower end ($1-$5). It is crucial never to clean your coin with polish or cloth, as this creates micro-scratches that ruin the proof finish and destroy its numismatic worth.
Estimated Market Prices for 1979-S Quarters
The market for modern proof quarters is stable, but the Type 2 variety is the clear winner for investors. While millions of these sets were produced, many have been damaged over the decades. Only the highest-rated specimens reach the triple-digit territory.
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For a detailed breakdown of historical sales and current retail trends, looking at a professional 1979-S Washington Quarter value chart is the best way to ensure you aren’t underpricing your find.
| Grade | Type 1 Value | Type 2 Value |
|---|---|---|
| PR67 Cameo | $5.00 | $22.00 |
| PR69 Deep Cameo | $15.00 | $45.00 |
| PR70 Deep Cameo | $28.00 | $175.00 |
Rare Errors to Look For
Beyond the Type 1 and Type 2 varieties, 1979-S Washington Quarters can occasionally be found with production errors. Since proof coins are struck twice with high pressure, errors are significantly rarer than they are on “business strike” coins found in your pocket.
Common errors to look for include “Off-Center Strikes,” where the design is pushed to one side, or “Double Die” errors, where lines on the lettering appear doubled. While extremely rare for the 1979-S, if you find one, the value could skyrocket into the hundreds or even thousands. Use CoinKnow to scan your coin for these oddities; the app’s AI is trained to spot irregularities that the naked eye might miss.
Your Old Coin Could Be Valuable!
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Another interesting phenomenon is “Toning.” Some 1979-S quarters stored in original paper envelopes have developed beautiful rainbow colors due to oxidation. Collectors often pay a huge premium for “Monster Toned” proof coins, sometimes doubling the standard book value.
Is It Worth Getting Authenticated?
Many hobbyists ask if they should send their 1979-S quarter to a service like PCGS or NGC for professional grading. The answer depends entirely on the variety and potential grade. Because it costs roughly $30-$50 per coin for grading and shipping, it generally isn’t worth it for a Type 1 “Filled S” variety.
However, if you believe you have a perfect Type 2 “Clear S” with Deep Cameo contrast, the investment in professional grading can be very lucrative. A certified PR70 Type 2 is a centerpiece for any modern quarter collection and can be sold easily at major auction houses. Always consult a pricing guide before spending money on authentication.
FAQ
Q: How can I tell if my 1979-S quarter is a Type 2?
A: Look at the “S” mint mark under magnification. If the loops of the S are clear and the ends of the letter have round, distinct bulbous shapes, it’s a Type 2. If the S looks like a solid “blob” with no open space, it is a Type 1.
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Q: Are 1979-S quarters made of silver?
A: No. Unlike quarters minted before 1965, the 1979-S Washington Quarter is made of a copper-nickel clad composition. It contains no silver and is valued strictly for its collector appeal and condition.
Q: Can I find a 1979-S quarter in my pocket change?
A: It is very rare, but possible. These coins were intended for sets, but sometimes people break open the sets and spend the coins. If you find one in circulation, it will likely be “impaired,” meaning it has scratches and has lost its mirror finish, reducing its value to about face value or slightly more.
Q: Why is the San Francisco Mint mark “S” important?
A: The “S” signifies that the coin was produced at the San Francisco Mint, which since 1975 has predominantly produced proof coins for collectors rather than money for general spending. This makes the coin inherently scarcer than those with “P” (Philadelphia) or “D” (Denver) mint marks.