The 1955 Washington Quarter with no mint mark is worth anywhere from $6 in worn condition to over $500 in high-grade mint state. Finding one of these silver coins in your pocket change or an old jar is exciting, as every 1955 quarter contains 90% real silver, giving it inherent value.
| Condition | Estimated Value |
|---|---|
| Good (Circulated) | $6.00 – $8.00 |
| Fine to Extremely Fine | $9.00 – $15.00 |
| Uncirculated (MS60+) | $25.00 – $65.00 |
| Gem Mint State (MS67+) | $400.00+ |
Understanding the History of the 1955 Washington Quarter
Collectors often refer to the 1950s as a “golden era” for silver coinage. If you have recently discovered an old stash of coins, using the best coin identifier app can help you quickly sort the gems from the common pocket change. The 1955 Washington Quarter was produced during a time when the United States Mint was still using 90% silver and 10% copper for its quarters.
This specific year is interesting because the Philadelphia Mint produced a relatively low number of these coins compared to other years in the 1950s. Only about 18 million quarters were struck in Philadelphia in 1955. While that sounds like a lot, it is significantly less than the 100 million or more often seen in modern production.
Because of this lower mintage, the 1955 quarter remains a favorite for hobbyists. When you use an app like CoinHix, you can track how these mintage numbers influence the current market price and rarity rankings among other Washington Silver Quarters.
The Significance of No Mint Mark on a 1955 Quarter
If your 1955 quarter has no mint mark, it means it was struck at the Philadelphia Mint. During this era, the Philadelphia Mint did not use a “P” mark on quarters. You can identify this by looking at the reverse (the eagle side) of the coin, specifically just below the wreath. If there is a blank space there, you have a Philadelphia-minted coin.
It is important to check the silver content before assuming its value. Every 1955 quarter is a silver coin, weighing approximately 6.25 grams. Even if the coin is heavily worn and has lost its collectible “premium,” it will always be worth its weight in silver.
To get the most accurate 1955 quarter value info, you should look for signs of original luster—that “shiny” look that hasn’t been scrubbed off by years of circulation. Most coins found in jars today fall into the “Circulated” category, but even these are worth several times their face value.
Grading and Determining 1955 Quarter Value
Grading is the process of determining the physical condition of a coin. For the 1955 Washington Quarter, the difference between a $7 coin and a $70 coin often comes down to tiny scratches invisible to the naked eye. Beginners can use CoinHix to compare their coin against high-resolution images of graded samples.
In “Good” condition, the letters of the word “Liberty” and the date are visible but worn. In “About Uncirculated” condition, the coin looks almost new but might have slight smoothing on Washington’s cheek or the eagle’s breast feathers.
For those looking for high-end investment pieces, the 1955 quarter value for uncirculated grades shows a steep price climb once you reach MS66 or MS67 levels.
| Grade | Description | Retail Price |
|---|---|---|
| VG8 | Very Good – Clear detail but flat | $7.50 |
| EF40 | Extremely Fine – Sharp details | $12.00 |
| MS63 | Mint State – Original luster | $35.00 |
| MS66 | Near Flawless – Rare | $150.00 |
Rare Errors to Look For in 1955 Quarters
While the standard 1955 Washington Quarter is valuable for its silver, error coins are the real “lottery tickets.” One of the most famous sought-after anomalies is the “D over S” mint mark, but that only applies to Denver-struck coins. For Philadelphia (no mint mark) versions, collectors look for “Doubled Die” errors.
A Doubled Die occurs when the die used to strike the coin has a misaligned image. Look closely at the lettering in “IN GOD WE TRUST” or the date. If you see a clear overlapping or a “shadow” effect on the numbers, your coin could be worth hundreds of dollars regardless of its silver content.
Another common error is the “Die Crack.” As the metal dies aged, they would sometimes crack, leaving a raised line of metal on the coin’s surface. While minor cracks don’t add much value, large, dramatic cracks across Washington’s face can attract specialized collectors.
Silver Content and Melt Value Explained
For many everyday Americans, the most important thing to know is that 1955 quarters are “junk silver.” This term isn’t an insult; it simply means the coin’s value is primarily derived from its 0.1808 troy ounces of pure silver.
As the price of silver fluctuates on the global market, so does the base value of your quarter. If silver is $25 per ounce, your quarter has a “melt value” of about $4.50. However, because the 1955 is a slightly better date than common 1964 quarters, it almost always sells for a premium above its melt price.
Using CoinHix allows you to see real-time updates on silver spot prices, so you know exactly what the “floor” price of your collection is. Never sell your silver quarters for face value (25 cents) at a bank; even the most beat-up 1955 quarter is worth a significant multiple of that.
| Silver Price per Ounce | Quarter Melt Value |
|---|---|
| $20.00 | $3.62 |
| $25.00 | $4.52 |
| $30.00 | $5.42 |
How to Sell Your 1955 Washington Quarter
If you’ve decided to turn your coins into cash, you have several options. For a single coin in average condition, a local coin shop is the easiest route. They will usually pay you a percentage of the silver melt value or the “Book Value” if the coin is in great shape.
If you suspect you have a high-grade specimen (MS65 or better), you might consider professional grading through services like PCGS or NGC. A certified coin can sell for much more at auction or on platforms like eBay. However, grading costs money, so only do this if the coin appears flawless.
Before talking to a dealer, it’s a good idea to research recent sales. This ensures you won’t be underpaid. The 1955 quarter is a staple in the hobby, and there is always a buyer for silver Washingtons, especially those with the “Philadelphia” (No Mint Mark) pedigree.
FAQ
Q: Is a 1955 quarter with no mint mark rare?
A: It is not “rare” in the sense that millions were made, but it is much scarcer than coins from the 1960s. It is considered a “better date” among silver quarter collectors.
Q: Where is the mint mark located on a 1955 quarter?
A: The mint mark is located on the reverse (tails) side, directly below the center of the wreath that the eagle is sitting on. If that area is blank, it was made in Philadelphia.
Q: How much silver is in a 1955 Washington Quarter?
A: It contains 90% silver and 10% copper. Each coin has approximately 0.1808 ounces of pure silver content.
Q: Should I clean my 1955 silver quarter to make it worth more?
A: No! Never clean old coins. Cleaning leaves microscopic scratches that destroy the “numismatic” value. Collectors prefer a tarnished, original coin over a shiny, cleaned one.