The 1979 Quarter Explored: A Big Chapter in Coin History

You might have a small coin in your pocket right now that is disguised as an ordinary 1979 quarter. But unbeknownst to many, these coins carry significant historical value and, in some cases, monetary worth far exceeding 25 cents. Today, we want to tell you more about the 1979 quarter and try to answer the question ‘How much is a 1979 quarter worth?’

The Late 1970s: The Era of Changes in the U.S. Coinage

The year 1979 was a turning point in American numismatics. The U.S. Mint was making bold moves with new coin designs and experimenting with materials—all while the nation grappled with economic challenges and social change.

The Susan B. Anthony Dollar

In a bid to modernize U.S. currency and honor a pioneering figure in women's rights, the Mint released the Susan B. Anthony dollar. Unfortunately, the coin's size and composition closely resembled that of the quarter and led to confusion. Vending machines couldn't tell the difference, and neither could many people. The coin was often mistaken for a quarter. This, in turn, diminished its intended utility.

This confusion inadvertently made the quarter popular itself. Amid the chaos, the 1979 Washington quarter continued to be the workhorse of everyday transactions, but it also began to pique the interest of collectors (especially 1979 misprint quarter) because of unique characteristics and errors that emerged during its production.

You can try to find all these coins in Mid American Rare Coin Galleries, as they have rather big collections of different coins for selling. Moreover, they are always interested in buying something new.

Mint Marks and Their Significance: The Code on Coins

Every coin minted in the United States has a mint mark—an initial or symbol that indicates where it was produced. These small letters can have a big impact on a coin's rarity and value.

Philadelphia Mint (No Mint Mark)

• Characteristics: Coins minted in Philadelphia in 1979 carry no mint mark. At the time, it was standard practice for the Philadelphia Mint to omit a mint mark on quarters.

• Collectibility: These coins are rather common. But they hold value for being representative of the mainstay production. Collectors might seek out uncirculated examples or coins with unusual features, such as 1979 quarter errors.

Denver Mint ("D" Mint Mark)

• Characteristics: The 1979 D quarter features a "D" mint mark. This signifies that it was produced at the Denver Mint.

• Filled Mint Mark Phenomenon: Some of these coins display a "filled D" (1979 D quarter filled mint mark) where the mint mark appears clogged or blob-like. This happens due to grease, dirt, or debris filling the mint mark on the die. 

• Collector Interest: The 1979 filled D quarter intrigues collectors who specialize in mint errors. They are not exceedingly rare but these coins can be more valuable than their standard counterparts, especially if in excellent condition.

San Francisco Mint ("S" Mint Mark)

• Characteristics: Quarters from the San Francisco Mint bear an "S" mint mark and are typically proof coins, not intended for circulation.

• Type 1 and Type 2 Variations:

• Type 1 ("Filled S"): The mint mark appears blurry or filled in due to a worn-out punch.

• Type 2 ("Clear S"): Introduced partway through the year with a new punch, resulting in a sharp, clear "S."

• Value and Rarity: The Type 2 is considerably rarer than the Type 1. The value of 1979 quarter of these types, by their nature, is higher, and they are already more desirable due to their superior strike and finish.

Error Coins: When Mistakes Become Expensive

In the coin-collecting world, errors can make a difference, for example, think of error pennies. The 1979 quarter error is no exception.

Types of Errors Found in the Quarter 1979

• Off-Center Strikes: Coins where the design is not properly aligned results in a portion of the design missing from one side and a blank area on the opposite edge. So, how much is a quarter from 1979 worth? The degree of misalignment can affect the coin's value—the more dramatic, the better.

• Clipped Planchets: Occur when the metal strip from which blanks are punched overlaps or misfeeds. These coins will have a crescent-shaped clip along the edge.

• Die Breaks and Cracks: Manifest as raised lines or blobs on the coin's surface due to cracks or breaks in the die. A significant die break can create a "cud," where a substantial part of the design is missing.

• Filled Die Errors: As with the filled mint marks, e.g., 1979 quarter filled D, grease or debris can fill parts of the die. This leads to coins with missing or faint details, e.g., the date or lettering.

Collectors often ask, "Is a 1979 quarter worth anything if it has misprints?" The value depends on the error's rarity, visibility, and the coin's condition. Minor errors might add a few dollars to the coin's value, while major errors can command prices from $50 to several hundred dollars.

What Is the Value of a 1979 Quarter? Factors That Influence Price

To understand how much is a 1979 quarter dollar worth, you should involve assessing several key factors.

Condition (Grade)

• Circulated Coins: Show signs of wear from use in transactions. Unless they possess notable errors or are uncommonly well-preserved, they usually hold only face value.

• Uncirculated Coins: Coins that have not entered circulation and exhibit no wear. They can be from Mint State (MS) 60 to MS70. The higher grades - the better condition.

• Proof Coins: They are specially minted for collectors. They feature sharp details and a mirror-like finish. Graded from Proof (PR) 60 to PR70.

Mint Mark and Type

• 1979 Quarter D: A standard coin unless featuring a filled mint mark or error. The 1979 D quarter filled mint mark value is rather higher than ordinary ones. 

• 1979-S Proof Quarter: Type 2 proofs are rarer and more valuable than Type 1. The types were described above in the paragraph about mint marks. 

By the way, how much is a 1979 no mint mark quarter worth? If you compare them with other mint marks, these ones are the cheapest, as they are more common. However, you should keep in mind other factors that may influence the price. 

Errors and Varieties

• Filled Mint Marks: Both the filled "D" and "S" mint marks can enhance a coin's value. This means, for example, that the 1979 D quarter value will be higher if it has filled mint marks.

• Notable Errors: Coins with significant minting errors are highly assessed.

Market Demand

Coin values are also influenced by the current market demand. A coin might be rare, but if there's little interest among collectors at the time, its value could be lower than expected. Conversely, a surge in interest can drive up prices. That’s why we recommend that you check how much is a 1979 quarter worth today. 

Approximate Values for 1979 Quarters

Here's a more detailed breakdown to answer the frequent query, "What is a 1979 quarter worth?"

Note: Values of how much does a 1979 quarter worth are approximate and subject to change based on the coin market. Try to check them out in a coin identifier by image.

Common Questions About the 1979 Quarter

How Much Is 1979 Quarter Worth Beyond Its Face Value?

It depends on its condition, mint mark, and whether it has any errors. Uncirculated coins, proofs, and error coins can be worth more than 25 cents.

How Much Is a 1979 Quarter Worth Today?

• Circulated Coins: Generally worth face value.

• Uncirculated Coins: Can cost from $1 to over $200.

• Proof Coins: Type 2 proofs in perfect condition (PR70) can be worth $500 or more.

What Makes the 1979-D Quarter Special?

The 1979-D quarter is notable for instances of the filled mint mark error. 1979 quarter value D with a filled mint mark can be higher, especially if in good condition.

Where Is the Mint Mark Located on a 1979 Quater?

On the obverse (front) side, to the right of George Washington's ponytail, you'll find the mint mark—a small letter indicating the mint where the coin was produced.

Are There Any Silver 1979 Quarters?

No, quarters minted for circulation after 1964 are made of a copper-nickel clad composition. However, special silver proof sets were made in certain years, but not for 1979.

The 1979 Quarter in the Larger Numismatic Landscape

The love for the 1979 quarter extends beyond its potential monetary value. It shows a link to an interesting period in U.S. history—a time when the nation saw change, experimented with new ideas, and pushed the boundaries of tradition.

Next time you come across a 1979 quarter, take a moment to examine it. Look for the mint mark, inspect the details, and see if anything unusual catches your eye. Whether you're curious about "What is the 1979 filled D quarter value?" or just fascinated by the possibility of finding a rare coin, it can be rewarding.

Not every 1979 quarter will make you rich. But the knowledge and appreciation you gain are invaluable. After all, every coin has a story to tell—some just happen to be more intriguing than others.

Sources:

1. https://www.ngccoin.com/coin-explorer/united-states/quarters/washington-quarters-1932-1998/15907/1979-d-25c-ms/

2. https://www.finance-monthly.com/2023/08/1979-quarter-coin-value-checker-history-worth/