1935-D Washington Quarter: A Numismatic Gem of Historic Significance

In 1935, the Denver Mint produced 5,780,000 Washington quarters with a distinct transitional design. This 1935-D Washington Quarter features John Flanagan's heraldic eagle reverse and a slightly altered obverse inscription, with a bolder "IN GOD WE TRUST" motto than previous issues.

The 1935-D Washington Quarter: A Detailed Analysis of Its History, Design, and Numismatic Significance

Historical Context and Genesis

In commemoration of the 200th birth anniversary of President George Washington, the United States Congress passed a resolution in 1924, signed by then-President Calvin Coolidge. The resolution mandated the commemoration of Washington's legacy through various events, including the replacement of the Standing Liberty quarter.

Originally intended as a commemorative half dollar, the Great Depression forced the Treasury Department to reconsider. Seeking a less expensive alternative, the Washington quarter was proposed as a replacement for the Standing Liberty quarter, which was known to be difficult to produce and resulted in rapid die wear.

Design Controversies and Selection

In 1931, the Treasury Department held a design competition for the Washington commemorative coin. Well-known coin designer Laura Gardin Fraser submitted her design, which was selected by the Bicentennial Commission. However, Secretary of the Treasury Andrew Mellon overruled the Commission's choice and opted to hold a second competition.

In a controversial move, Mellon again rejected Fraser's design and instead chose the submission from sculptor John Flanagan. This decision sparked a minor scandal at the time and has remained a topic of debate among numismatists.

Technical Adjustments and Production

The production of the Washington quarter commenced in 1932. In its early stages, the Mint made adjustments to the obverse design to ensure optimal durability. Flanagan's original engraving of the motto "IN GOD WE TRUST" was deemed too faint, and the hubs were modified to create a bolder font weight.

The 1935-D Washington quarter features dies cut from the second transitional type of 1935 hub. This resulted in a slimmer font weight for the motto compared to later issues, but the letters were still notably sharper than those on the first transitional type.

Market Value and Notable Specimens

As of the time of this writing, the spot price of silver is $25.08 per ounce, giving the 1935-D quarter a melt value of $4.53. However, its numismatic value far exceeds its bullion content.

Prices vary depending on the condition of the coin, with About Good (AG) specimens averaging $5, Very Fine (VF) coins ranging from $20-25, and About Uncirculated (AU) specimens fetching up to $150-200. Mint State (MS) specimens can command prices from $200 to $3,000, with higher-graded pieces reaching much higher.

Notable examples of the 1935-D Washington quarter with exceptional grades and desirable toning include:

• PCGS MS67+ #43293083: Sold for $3,120, featuring green, gold, and orange toning on the obverse.
• PCGS MS67+ #39378479: Sold for $3,240, showcasing gold, green, and orange toning on the obverse.
• PCGS MS67+ CAC #41880622: Sold for $4,560, with orange and red rim toning on the obverse.
• PCGS MS67+ CAC #84299027: Sold for $4,800, exhibiting scattered rust and orange toning on the obverse.
• PCGS MS67+ #29967667: Sold for $7,050, displaying mottled gold, green, and magenta toning on both sides.

Design and Symbolism

Obverse:

The obverse of the 1935-D Washington Quarter is based on a bust of General George Washington created by Jean-Antoine Houdon in 1785. Flanagan's design incorporates several modifications, including a slightly different head shape and the addition of hair curls not present in the original bust. The motto "IN GOD WE TRUST" appears beneath the bust, along with the denomination "LIBERTY" and the date "1935." Flanagan's initials "JF" are discreetly engraved above the date.

Reverse:

Unconstrained by specific requirements, Flanagan's design for the reverse features a heraldic eagle with outspread wings and a left-facing head. The eagle stands atop a bundle of arrows and two olive branches, symbolizing the nation's military preparedness and peaceful intentions, respectively. The mintmark "D" is placed between the olive branches. Inscribed above the eagle are the phrases "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" and "E PLURIBUS UNUM," while "QUARTER DOLLAR" is written below.

Edge:

The edge of the 1935-D Washington Quarter is reeded, a traditional design element used to prevent the counterfeiting of coins.

Designer: John Flanagan

Born in New Jersey in 1865, John Flanagan established himself as a renowned sculptor and medallic artist. He collaborated with Augustus Saint-Gaudens and designed the official medals for several significant events, including the 1915 Panama-Pacific International Exposition and the 1924 bust of Saint-Gaudens.

Coin Specifications

• Country: United States
• Year of Issue: 1935
• Denomination: Quarter Dollar
• Mint Mark: D (Denver)
• Mintage: 5,780,000
• Alloy: 90% Silver, 10% Copper
• Weight: 6.25 grams
• Diameter: 24.30 mm
• Edge: Reeded
• Obverse Designer: John Flanagan
• Reverse Designer: John Flanagan
• Quality: Business Strike