How Much Is a 1995 S Washington Quarter Worth Today

The 1995-S Washington Quarter is worth anywhere from $5 in standard proof condition to over $100 for high-grade specimens with Deep Cameo finishes. If you have found one of these shiny coins in your change or an old collection, you are likely holding a special “Proof” coin intended for collectors rather than general circulation.

The Distinctive Shine of the 1995 S Proof Quarter

If you just pulled a 1995-S quarter out of a jar, the first thing you will notice is its mirrors-like finish. Unlike the dull quarters we use at the grocery store, these coins were struck at the San Francisco Mint specifically for coin sets. They feature a sharp relief and a background that looks like a mirror, a hallmark of the Proof minting process.

To confirm what you have, check for the small “S” mint mark to the right of George Washington’s ponytail. Finding one of these in your pocket change is rare because they weren’t meant to be spent. To quickly verify your find, many collectors use the CoinKnow app to scan their coins and get instant identification. If you are looking for the top coin identifier app to help organize your suburban treasure hunt, this tool is a great place to start.

Because these coins were sold in protective plastic cases, they usually remain in excellent condition. However, if a 1995-S has been “broken out” of its set and used to buy a soda, its value drops significantly due to scratches and wear. Collectors prioritize “Deep Cameo” (DCAM) coins, where the frost on Washington’s portrait contrasts heavily against the black-mirrored field.

Materials and Composition of 1995 S Quarters

It is vital to know that in 1995, the San Francisco Mint produced two different types of quarters. One is made of the standard copper-nickel “clad” composition that we see every day. The other is a special 90% silver version. Telling them apart is the difference between a few dollars and a significant prize.

The easiest way to tell the difference is to look at the edge of the coin. If you see a copper stripe, it is a clad coin. If the edge is solid silver/white, you might have the 90% silver version. CoinKnow users often upload photos of the coin edge to confirm the metal content before selling.

The 1995 Washington quarter value guide shows that silver versions consistently fetch higher prices because of their precious metal content. Even if the coin is damaged, the silver melt value provides a “floor” for the price that the copper-nickel versions do not have.

1995 S Washington Quarter Value Chart

The value of your coin depends heavily on whether it is the Clad or Silver version and how perfectly it has been preserved. Professional grading services like PCGS or NGC use a 70-point scale, where PR70 is a perfect coin.

Coin Type & Grade	Estimated Market Value
1995-S Clad Proof (PR65)	$3.00 – $5.00
1995-S Clad Proof (PR69 Deep Cameo)	$12.00 – $18.00
1995-S Silver Proof (PR67)	$15.00 – $22.00
1995-S Silver Proof (PR70 Deep Cameo)	$110.00+

For those interested in how these prices compare to regular business strikes from Philadelphia or Denver, you can view the 1995-P quarter price data in mint state. You will notice that while Proof coins are beautiful, certain ultra-rare “circulation” strikes in perfect condition can sometimes be worth even more to specialized collectors.

What Determines the Price of Your 1995 Quarter?

Rarity and condition are the two pillars of coin valuation. For the 1995-S Clad Proof, the US Mint produced over 2 million units. Because these were kept in sets, they aren’t exactly “rare.” However, the 1995-S Silver Proof had a lower mintage of around 679,000, making it more desirable.

“Eye appeal” is also a factor. If the coin has developed a colorful “toning” (a natural oxidation that turns the silver purplish or golden), some collectors will pay a premium. Conversely, if you see fingerprints on the surface, the oils from skin can permanently damage the Proof finish, lowering the value.

Using the CoinKnow app can help you identify if your coin has “haze” or scratches that might prevent it from reaching a high grade. Always handle these coins by the edges to preserve their value. Many Americans find these coins in “Proof Sets” that have been passed down through families; if the set is still sealed in its original purple or blue US Mint box, it is usually worth more as a complete set than as individual loose coins.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How can I tell if my 1995-S quarter is silver without weighing it?

A: The “tissue test” is a common trick. Lay a single ply of white tissue paper over the coin alongside a normal 2024 quarter. The 1995-S silver quarter will appear bright white through the tissue, while the clad coin will appear grey or dark. You can also look at the edge—silver coins have no brown copper stripe.

Q: Is a 1995-S quarter rare?

A: They are not “rare” in the sense that millions were made, but they are “low mintage” compared to the billions of quarters made for circulation. You will almost never find one in a vending machine or change, which makes them a special find for casual hunters.

Q: Should I get my 1995-S quarter professionally graded?

A: Generally, it is only worth grading if the coin appears to be a “perfect” PR70. The cost of grading (often $30-$50) is more than the value of most 1995-S quarters. If your coin has even one tiny scratch, it is better to keep it in a protective flip or card.

Q: What is the most expensive 1995-S quarter ever sold?

A: Perfect PR70 Deep Cameo specimens of the silver version have sold at auction for over $150. Clad versions in perfect condition usually top out around $40 to $50. Context matters—most “found” coins will be in the $5 to $15 range.