1959 Quarter Coin Value (Errors List, “D” & No Mint Mark Worth)

The 1959 Washington quarter offers collectors an accessible entry into silver coinage. With over 85 million coins struck between Philadelphia and Denver, these quarters are readily available for type collectors seeking affordable silver examples.

1959 proof coin demonstrates the U.S. Mint’s advancing production quality. Standard proof coins start at $23. The deep cameo coin, due to its exceptional visual appeal and relative scarcity in proof coins, commands an average price of $152.

The 1959 silver coin is available in a wide variety of styles, from the common quarter to premium proof pieces, making it an ideal choice for collectors exploring precious metals investment and the art of proof coinage.

 

1959 Quarter Value By Variety

Here’s what your 1959 quarters are worth based on type and condition – from pocket change finds to rare proof varieties that serious collectors hunt for:

If you know the grade of your coin, you can find the exact price below in the Value Guides section.

Also Read: Top 100 Most Valuable Modern Quarter Worth Money (1932 – Present)

 

Top 10 Most Valuable 1959 Quarter Worth Money

Here’s the definitive ranking of the most valuable 1959 quarters based on actual auction results from 2000 to present – and the results might surprise you!

The clear winner is the 1959 DCAM 69, commanding an impressive $11,750 at auction. This deep cameo proof in superb gem condition represents the absolute pinnacle of 1959 quarter collecting. High-grade circulation strikes follow closely, with both the 1959-D 67 and 1959 67 (no mint mark) breaking into four-figure territory at $9,600 and $8,400 respectively.

What’s fascinating is how grade-sensitive these coins are – notice the dramatic drop from MS67 to lower mint state grades. The specialized varieties also hold their own, with the 1959 Type B Reverse FS-901 and RPM FS-501 error commanding solid premiums even in mid-grade condition.

The lesson? Condition is everything with 1959 quarters, and proof varieties with strong cameo contrast can reach astronomical levels.

 

History Of The 1959 Quarter

The initial purpose of the Washington quarter was to honor the first President with a one-year commemorative coin. The approach of his 200th anniversary of birth included preparations for the celebration of this jubilee from 1924, but the activities were not intense at the beginning.

The officials chose the work of Mrs. Gardin Fraser among the significant number of received design solutions for this coin. However, the new quarters finally got the John Flanagan’s design, selected by the Treasury Secretary.

The historical importance and beauty of these coins explains the interest of numismatists in collecting them. However, it is increasingly difficult to find perfectly preserved quarters, especially those from the early period.

Also Read: Top 30 Most Valuable State Quarter Worth Money (1999 – 2008)

 

Is Your 1959 Quarter Rare?

For quick rarity checks on any quarters you find, our CoinValueChecker App instantly identifies varieties and current market values.

 

Key Features Of The 1959 Quarter

All American coins went through changes in design and composition during their lifetime. It was the same with the Washington quarters replacing the previous 25-cent coins, the Standing Liberty quarters. All pieces minted before 1965, including those struck in 1959, contained silver.

The Obverse Of The 1959 Quarter

The profile of George Washington on the obverse is a tribute to the first American President. His left-facing profile occupies the central part, but the designer didn’t pay much attention to details except for the recognizable hairstyle.

In addition to the bust, you can also read inscriptions, such as the word LIBERTY on the upper rim and the minting year stretching along the lower coin part. The phrase IN GOD WE TRUST is visible on the left side.

The Reverse Of The 1959 Quarter

The reverse design is not simple and shows numerous national symbols. In the center, you can see an eagle spreading both wings while tightly holding arrows. Below are two crossed olive branches.

On the upper rim, you can read the State name. Directly below this inscription is the saying E PLURIBUS UNUM, while the denomination (QUARTER DOLLAR) is along the lower rim.

Other features of the 1959 quarter

The 1959 quarter is round in shape with a reeded rim and composition that includes 90% silver. A diameter of 0.95669 inches (24.3 mm) and a thickness of 0.06889 inches (1.75 mm) are standard features for this coinage. Each coin weighs 0.20094 ounces (6.25 g) and has a silver weight of 0.18084 troy ounces (5.62 g).

Also Read: Top 20 Most Valuable 1776-1976 Bicentennial Quarter

 

1959 Quarter Mintage & Survival Data

Here’s the fascinating story behind 1959 quarter survival rates – and why some are way scarcer than you’d think!

The mintage numbers tell one story, but survival rates reveal the real treasure hunt. While over 86 million quarters were minted that year, the survival data shows dramatic differences across varieties.

Regular circulation coins had massive mintages but maintained survival rates around 9.99% . The D mint quarters dominated production with over 62 million coins struck.

The proof varieties paint a completely different picture. From the same around 1.1 million proof mintage, survival rates plummet as quality increases. Regular proofs kept a decent 39.6% survival rate, but CAM proofs dropped to just 16.9%, and DCAM proofs crashed to only 3.13% survival.

That tiny slice of surviving DCAM quarters – just 36,000 coins from over a million minted – Explains why they are now priced slightly higher.

Also Read: Top 100 Most Valuable Washington Quarter Worth Money (1932 – 1998)

 

The Easy Way to Know Your 1959 Quarter Value

Determining your 1959 quarter’s value traditionally involves multiple complicated steps: examining the mint mark under a magnifying glass, comparing wear patterns against grading standards, researching current silver prices, consulting outdated price guides, and visiting dealers for expert opinions—a time-consuming process requiring specialized knowledge.

There’s now a simpler solution. CoinValueChecker App eliminates all this complexity. Just snap a photo of your coin, and instantly receive accurate valuations based on mint mark, condition, and real-time market data. Download CoinValueChecker APP today for effortless, professional coin evaluation!

 

1959 Quarter Value Guides

1959 Quarter Types:

• 1959 No Mint Mark- Philadelphia
• 1959-D- Denver mint
• 1959 Proof
• 1959 CAM
• 1959 DCAM

Understanding these five distinct types is crucial for any 1959 quarter collector. The circulation coins (No Mint and D) represent the workhorses of commerce, while the proof varieties showcase the mint’s craftsmanship at its finest.

Each type has different survival rates, values, and collector appeal. The progression from regular proof to CAM to DCAM shows increasing rarity and dramatically higher premiums, making proper identification essential for maximizing your collection’s value.

 

1959 No Mint Mark Quarter Value

The 1959 No Mint Mark quarter holds a unique position in Washington quarter collecting . What makes this coin particularly interesting is the dramatic grade sensitivity shown in its pricing structure.

While most circulated examples trade near face value, pristine examples can command exponential premiums, creating one of the steepest value curves in the Washington quarter series.

The auction records reveal just how volatile high-grade examples can be, with recent sales showing significant price swings based on market conditions and individual coin quality.

Current market activity data shows renewed collector interest, with trading volume fluctuations that suggest this date is gaining momentum among serious Washington quarter enthusiasts.

1959 Type B Reverse Quarter Value (FS-901)

The 1959 Type B Reverse Quarter (FS-901) represents a significant die variety featuring subtle but important differences in the reverse design elements compared to the standard Type A reverse. This variety is distinguished by specific characteristics in the eagle’s feathers, lettering placement, or other reverse details that collectors have cataloged as FS-901.

Unlike the dramatic price curves seen in other 1959 varieties, the Type B Reverse shows a more gradual value progression across  grades, reflecting its status as a recognized but moderately scarce variety among Washington quarter specialists.

Recent auction activity demonstrates steady collector recognition of this variety, with prices reflecting its established place in the Washington quarter collecting hierarchy.

Current market trends show consistent interest from variety collectors, indicating this FS-901 designation maintains solid demand among specialists who appreciate die differences.

 

1959-D Quarter Value

The 1959-D quarter represents Denver mint production during a pivotal year in Washington quarter history, with over 62 million coins struck making it the highest mintage variety of 1959.

Despite this large production run, the coin exhibits the same dramatic grade sensitivity as its Philadelphia counterpart, with values remaining flat through most circulated grades before skyrocketing in gem mint state condition. The Denver mint mark, located on the reverse below the eagle, helps distinguish these coins from their no mint mark Philadelphia siblings.

Recent auction results demonstrate the volatile nature of high-grade examples, with identical grades showing significant price variations depending on market timing and individual coin appeal.

Market activity patterns reveal steady collector interest, with volume fluctuations indicating this date maintains solid demand among Washington quarter specialists.

 

1959 Proof Quarter Value

The 1959 Proof quarter was struck specifically for collectors as part of the annual proof set, featuring a mirror-like finish achieved through specially polished dies and planchets. With over 1.1 million proofs produced, these coins were carefully handled and preserved, resulting in significantly higher survival rates compared to circulation strikes.

Unlike commercial coins, Proof quarters have a flatter price curve through the grades, reflecting their generally better condition and the specialized collector market they serve.

Auction records demonstrate the relatively stable pricing structure typical of proof coins, with less dramatic value swings than their circulation counterparts.

Market activity data shows consistent collector demand, with trading patterns reflecting the steady appeal of proof coins among Washington quarter enthusiasts.

 

1959 CAM Quarter Value

The 1959 CAM (Cameo) quarter represents a special subset of proof coins featuring frosted design elements that contrast sharply against mirror-like fields. This cameo effect was achieved when fresh dies produced coins with textured, frost-like surfaces on the raised portions while maintaining highly polished backgrounds.

CAM designation requires a significant contrast between these elements, making these coins more visually striking than regular proofs. With only about 195,000 surviving examples from the original proof mintage, CAM quarters occupy a middle tier in the 1959 proof hierarchy.

Auction results demonstrate the premium collectors place on this enhanced visual appeal, with CAM examples consistently outperforming regular proof counterparts.

Market activity trends show steady collector interest, reflecting the enduring appeal of these visually distinctive proof varieties among Washington quarter specialists.

 

1959 DCAM Quarter Value

The 1959 DCAM (Deep Cameo) quarter represents the pinnacle of proof coin production, featuring maximum contrast between deeply frosted design elements and brilliant mirror-like fields. This designation requires the most pronounced cameo effect achievable, with sharp definition between textured devices and polished backgrounds.

DCAM coins were produced from the freshest dies before any wear could diminish the frosting effect. With only approximately 36,000 surviving examples from the original proof mintage, these represent the rarest and most visually striking variety of 1959 proof quarters, commanding substantial premiums among serious collectors.

Auction record data shows that high-grade, well-preserved Proof coins have achieved significant price appreciation.

Current market activity demonstrates strong collector demand, with trading patterns reflecting the premium status these deep cameo varieties hold in the Washington quarter collecting community.

Also Read: What Quarters Are Worth Money

 

Rare 1959 Quarter Error List

The following are key errors of the 1959 quarter that are actively sought after by collectors – these special coins generally command higher prices than regular coins when found in circulation or collections.

1. 1959-D RPM FS-501

This Denver mint error features a Re-punched Mint mark (RPM) where the “D” mint mark shows clear doubling or re-punching evidence. The FS-501 designation indicates this specific RPM variety has been cataloged  as a collectible error.

These occur when the mint mark punch is applied multiple times in slightly different positions, creating visible doubling of the “D” on the reverse. While not extremely rare, FS-501 examples trade for modest premiums over regular 1959-D quarters, especially in higher grades where the re-punching is most visible.

2. 1959 DDO FS-101

The Doubled Die Obverse FS-101 affects proof coins, including both regular proof and CAM varieties. This error shows doubling in the obverse design elements, typically visible in the lettering, date, or Washington’s portrait details.

Since this variety only appears on proof coins, examples are inherently scarcer than circulation strike errors. CAM examples with the FS-101 doubling are particularly sought after, combining the visual appeal of cameo contrast with the distinctive doubled die characteristics that variety collectors prize

Also Read: 20 Rare Washington Quarter Errors Worth Money (Full List with Pictures)

 

Where To Sell Your 1959 Quarter?

Ready to turn your 1959 quarter knowledge into real profits? I’ve compiled the top-performing sales platforms and auction venues where these Washington quarter varieties consistently bring premium prices from serious collectors.

Check out now: Best Places To Sell Coins Online (Pros & Cons) 

 

1959 Quarter Market Trend

*Market Trend Chart showing the number of people paying attention to this coin.

 

FAQ About The 1959 Quarter

1. What Makes A 1959 Quarter Rare?

Like most modern coins, the 1959 quarters are not considered rare. The mintage of almost 90 million coins ensured their abundance in today’s coin market. However, highly graded specimens are rarer and often reach significant prices.

2. Which 1959 Quarters Are Valuable More Than Others In The Set?

• The 1959 MS 67 quarter purchased for $17,250 in 2012
• The 1959 D MS 67 quarter purchased for $14,950 in 2012
• The 1959 PR 69 quarter with the DCAM feature purchased for $11,750 in 2018
• The 1959 MS 66+ quarter with the Type B Reverse error purchased for $900 in 2018
• The 1959 PR 25 quarter purchased for $900 in 2022
• The 1959 PR 68 quarter with the CAM feature purchased for $823 in 2013
• The 1959 D MS 65 quarter with the Type B Reverse error purchased for $541 in 2017
• The 1959 PR 67 quarter with the DDO error purchased for $288 in 2011
• The 1959 PR 67 quarter with the DDO error and CAM feature purchased for $286 in 2014

3. How Much Is The 1959 No Mint Mark Quarter Expensive?

The mint in Philadelphia minted about 24 million coins that year. You can buy one of the circulating coins for less than $5. Preserved specimens in the mint state are worth significantly more, and their price ranges up to $900.

4. What Is The Most Valuable Quarter In The Series?

The US Mint has changed the Washington quarter composition over the years. Pieces made of silver came from an earlier period and typically had a higher value than modern, clad pieces.

The highest price of 143,750 dollars belongs to the MS 66-graded specimen from Denver, produced in 1932. One numismatist purchased it at a 2008 auction. The other quarter of the same rating minted in San Francisco in 1932 was sold at $45,500 in 2020.

Along with silver quarters, there are also specimens with clad composition on the coin market. Their prices are significantly lower than the silver pieces’ value.

The most expensive coin without silver content is the 1966 MS 68+ quarter, sold at $21,000 in 2023. It is followed by the 1983 P clad specimen in MS 65 grade that reached $15,862.50 in 2014.