The 2021-D Washington Crossing the Delaware Quarter is a remarkable and valuable coin in U.S. numismatics. Issued in 2021, it connects two significant series in American coinage: the “America the Beautiful” series and the “American Women Quarters” program. This coin stands out because it’s the only year it was issued, making it especially appealing to collectors.
Design and Specifications
Obverse: The front of the coin features George Washington’s classic left-facing portrait, designed by John Flanagan in 1932. It also includes the inscriptions “LIBERTY,” “IN GOD WE TRUST,” and the mint mark “D” from the Denver Mint.
Reverse: The back of the coin showcases a historic scene: General George Washington leading his troops across the Delaware River on December 25, 1776, a key moment in the American Revolutionary War. This design was created by Benjamin Sowards and sculpted by Michael Gaudioso.
Composition: The coin is made from an outer layer of 75% copper and 25% nickel, bonded to a pure copper core.
Weight: 5.67 grams
Diameter: 24.26 mm
Edge: Reeded
Mintage and Rarity
In 2021, the Denver Mint produced 865,400,000 of these quarters. Although the mintage was high, the fact that it was only issued in 2021 makes it more valuable to collectors. Additionally, the Philadelphia Mint made 838,400,000 of the same design, while the San Francisco Mint produced special proof versions: 490,829 clad proof quarters and 350,891 silver proof quarters.
Value and Collectibility
The value of the 2021-D Washington Crossing the Delaware Quarter depends on its condition and whether it has any unique errors.
- Circulated Condition: Generally, these coins are worth their face value of $0.25.
- Uncirculated Condition:
- MS63 Grade: About $0.75
- MS65 Grade: Around $1.00
- MS66 to MS70 Grades: Higher values, with some MS69 coins selling for as much as $995 in auctions.
- Proof Versions:
- Clad Proof (2021-S): Valued around $4.50 in PR66DC condition and up to $15 in PR69DC condition.
- Silver Proof (2021-S): Worth at least its silver content, with a melt value of around $6.68. In PR66DC condition, it’s worth about $12, and in PR69DC condition, it could be valued at $20.
Notable Error Coins
Error coins can significantly increase the value of this quarter:
- Crown Die Chip Error: A die chip on Washington’s crown, which has sold for up to $70.
- Doubled Die Obverse Error: This error features doubling on inscriptions like “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST,” and can be worth up to $300.
- Misaligned Die Error: When the design is off-center, these coins can be worth around $16.
Collecting Tips
To make the most of your collection, consider the following tips:
- Condition Matters: Higher mint state grades, like MS66 and above, will generally increase the coin’s value.
- Seek Proof Versions: Proof coins, especially silver proofs, are rarer and more valuable.
- Look for Errors: Error coins are rare and can be very valuable.
The 2021-D Washington Crossing the Delaware Quarter is a valuable addition to any coin collection. Its historical significance, combined with its potential for higher value in certain grades and error versions, makes it a highly sought-after item among collectors.
1. What makes the 2021-D Washington Crossing the Delaware Quarter special?
The coin is unique because it was issued only in 2021, bridging two major U.S. coin series and depicting a pivotal moment in American history.
2. What is the value of a 2021-D Washington Crossing the Delaware Quarter?
The coin is worth its face value of $0.25 if circulated, but it can be worth more, especially in uncirculated grades or proof versions.
3. What are proof versions of this coin worth?
Clad proof versions are worth around $4.50 to $15, and silver proof versions are worth about $12 to $20, depending on condition.
4. How do errors affect the value of this coin?
Mint errors like die chips, doubled inscriptions, or misaligned designs can increase the value of the coin by a significant amount.
5. Where can I find a 2021-D Washington Crossing the Delaware Quarter?
You can find this coin in coin shops, auctions, or online marketplaces, especially if you’re looking for higher-grade versions or error coins.
