The 1946 Washington Quarter (no mint mark) is worth anywhere from $5 in well-worn condition to over $200 or more in near-perfect mint state grades. If you found one of these old silver quarters in a drawer or coin jar, you might be sitting on more than 25 cents — and this guide will help you figure out exactly what you have.
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What Makes the 1946 Washington Quarter Special
The 1946 Washington Quarter was minted in Philadelphia, which is why it carries no mint mark. After World War II ended, the U.S. Mint ramped up coin production, and Philadelphia struck over 53 million of these quarters that year.
Because so many were made, they aren’t super rare — but they are made of 90% silver, which alone gives them real melt value regardless of condition. At current silver prices, even a beat-up 1946 quarter is worth around $4 to $5 just for its silver content.
If you’re not sure what you’re holding, using the best coin identifier app can help you quickly confirm the date, mint mark, and estimated grade right from your phone.
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1946 Quarter No Mint Mark Value by Grade
The condition of your coin — what collectors call the “grade” — makes a huge difference in how much it’s worth. A coin that looks brand new is worth far more than one that’s been spent in circulation for decades.
Here’s a breakdown of typical values for the 1946 Washington Quarter with no mint mark:
| Grade | Description | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|
| Good (G-4) | Heavy wear, flat details | $5 – $6 |
| Very Fine (VF-20) | Moderate wear, some detail visible | $7 – $10 |
| Extremely Fine (EF-40) | Light wear on high points | $10 – $15 |
| About Uncirculated (AU-55) | Slight wear, most luster present | $20 – $35 |
| Mint State (MS-63) | Uncirculated, minor blemishes | $40 – $75 |
| Mint State (MS-65) | Gem uncirculated, strong luster | $100 – $200+ |
For the most up-to-date auction results and certified coin prices, you can check the 1946 Washington Quarter price data across mint state grades to see what collectors are actually paying right now.
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How to Tell If Your 1946 Quarter Is Worth More
Not all 1946 quarters are created equal. A few things can push the value higher than average.
Luster and eye appeal matter a lot. If your coin still has a shiny, almost mirror-like surface with no dark spots or scratches, it’s likely in a higher uncirculated grade. Coins like that can sell for $100 or more at auction.
Strike quality is another factor. Some 1946 Philadelphia quarters came out of the press with sharp, full details on Washington’s hair and the eagle’s feathers on the reverse. A sharply struck coin always attracts more interest from serious collectors.
Toning — that natural rainbow or golden color that develops on silver over time — can actually add to a coin’s appeal if it looks original and even. Harsh cleaning, however, destroys value. Never clean an old coin with anything abrasive.
If you want to dig deeper into what your 1946 quarter is worth based on its specific condition and grade, there are great resources that break down values in even more detail.
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Using an App to Identify and Value Your Coin
Technology has made it a lot easier for everyday people to learn about their old coins. CoinHix is a popular app that lets you scan a coin with your phone camera and get an instant identification, along with estimated values based on current market data.
For a coin like the 1946 Washington Quarter, CoinHix can help you figure out if you have a circulated example worth a few dollars or a higher-grade piece worth holding onto. It’s especially useful if you’re going through a coin collection and don’t know where to start.
Whether you’re a first-time finder or an occasional coin hunter, having a reliable digital tool in your pocket saves time and helps you make smarter decisions about selling or keeping your coins.
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FAQ
Q: Is a 1946 quarter with no mint mark made of silver?
A: Yes. The 1946 Washington Quarter has no mint mark because it was minted in Philadelphia, and like all Washington Quarters made before 1965, it contains 90% silver. Even in worn condition, it’s worth more than face value just for its silver content.
Q: How do I know what grade my 1946 Washington Quarter is?
A: Look at the coin under good lighting. If Washington’s hair above his ear and the eagle’s breast feathers on the back are sharp and clear, it’s likely in a higher grade. Heavy flatness and loss of detail indicate a lower grade. Apps like CoinHix can also give you a quick estimate.
Q: Is the 1946 Washington Quarter rare?
A: No, it’s not considered rare. The Philadelphia Mint struck over 53 million in 1946. However, finding one in true uncirculated, gem condition is harder than it sounds — and those examples can still bring solid prices from collectors who value eye appeal and original luster.