The 1979-S Washington Quarter is worth anywhere from $3 in standard proof condition to over $150 for rare high-grade Deep Cameo varieties. While coins found in pocket change are likely typical circulation strikes, those bearing the “S” mint mark are special collector issues that deserve a closer look.
| Coin Grade / Type | Estimated Market Value |
|---|---|
| 1979-S Proof (Type 1 Filled S) | $3.00 – $7.00 |
| 1979-S Proof (Type 2 Clear S) | $10.00 – $25.00 |
| PR70 Deep Cameo (High Grade) | $150.00+ |
Understanding the 1979-S Proof Washington Quarter
If you have discovered a 1979 quarter with an “S” mint mark, you have found a Proof coin. Unlike the millions of quarters struck in Philadelphia or Denver for daily commerce, Proof coins were produced at the San Francisco Mint specifically for collectors. These coins were never intended to buy a soda or pay for a parking meter; they were sold in plastic-encased sets directly by the U.S. Mint. Because they weren’t meant for circulation, finding one in your change usually means someone broke open a collector set.
To truly understand what you have, using the best coin identifier app can help you distinguish between the different finishes found on these coins. The 1979-S is particularly interesting because it features two distinct varieties of the mint mark. During this year, the mint transitioned its equipment, leading to the creation of the “Filled S” and the “Clear S” varieties. Collectors are highly interested in these differences, and the rarity of the “Clear S” makes it the more valuable of the two.
When you look at your coin, you will notice a shiny, mirror-like background and frosted details on George Washington’s portrait. This “Cameo” effect is the hallmark of a proof strike. However, the value isn’t just in the appearance; it lies in the technical preservation of the coin. Even a tiny scratch can significantly lower its market price. Using a tool like CoinHix can help you evaluate the surface quality of your coin to see if it qualifies for premium pricing.
The “Type 1” vs “Type 2” Mint Mark Mystery
The most important factor in determining the 1979-S Washington Quarter value is the shape of the mint mark. Collectors divide this year into Type 1 (Filled S) and Type 2 (Clear S). The Type 1 Mint Mark was created with a worn-out punch, resulting in an “S” that looks like a blob or an indistinguishable lump. This was the standard for the first half of the year.
The Type 2 Mint Mark, introduced later in 1979, was created with a new, sharper punch. This “Clear S” is much better defined, with visible loops and a clear field of “mirror” inside the loops of the letter. Because the Type 2 was introduced mid-year, it was produced in lower numbers. If you find a Type 2 in high grade, you are looking at a much more desirable piece.
| Variety | Characteristics | Rarity Level |
|---|---|---|
| Type 1 (Filled S) | Blurry, blob-like “S” | Common |
| Type 2 (Clear S) | Well-defined “S” with clear holes | Scarce |
Pricing and Market Value for 1979-S Quarters
The market price for these coins depends heavily on the “Deep Cameo” (DCAM) status. A Deep Cameo coin has a heavy frost on the raised parts of the design and a deep, black-water mirror finish on the flat parts. Professional graders like PCGS or NGC use these designations to separate average proofs from spectacular ones. You can find detailed 1979-S Washington Quarter auction pricing for high-grade specimens that reach into the hundreds of dollars.
For the everyday collector, an average 1979-S Type 1 usually sells for about $3 to $5. If you have the Type 2, the price jumps closer to $15 or $20 even in raw condition. However, if the coin has been handled and shows scratches or “hairlines,” the value drops toward the silver-less melt value—though these coins are made of copper-nickel, so “melt value” is essentially just 25 cents. It is the collector demand that provides the premium.
If you are unsure of your coin’s condition, the CoinHix app allows you to compare your coin against high-resolution images of known grades. This is vital because the difference between a PR68 and a PR69 grade might be invisible to the naked eye but can represent a $50 difference in market value. Always handle your proof coins by the edges to avoid leaving permanent fingerprints on the mirror surfaces.
Composition and Specifications of the 1979 Quarter
It is a common misconception that 1979 quarters contain silver. By 1979, the United States had long since moved away from silver coinage for general circulation and standard proof sets. The 1979-S Washington Quarter is composed of a “clad” sandwich: an inner core of pure copper with an outer layer of 75% copper and 25% nickel. This is why you will see a brownish-red stripe on the edge of the coin.
Understanding the technical specs can help you spot fakes or altered coins. A genuine 1979-S quarter should weigh 5.67 grams. If you find a coin that weighs significantly less or more, it might be an error or a different minting experiment. You can always check the current 1979 quarter value and specs to verify if your coin fits the standard minting profile.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Weight | 5.67 grams |
| Diameter | 24.3 mm |
| Composition | 91.67% Copper, 8.33% Nickel |
| Mint Mark Location | Right of Washington’s ponytail |
Is It Worth Getting Your 1979-S Quarter Graded?
One of the most frequent questions from new hobbyists is whether they should send their coin to a professional grading service. Grading usually costs between $30 and $50 per coin when shipping and insurance are included. Therefore, it only makes sense to grade a 1979-S quarter if you are highly confident it is a Type 2 Clear S in nearly perfect condition (PR69 or PR70).
For most 1979-S quarters found in inherited collections or “junk drawers,” the cost of grading will exceed the value of the coin. Most collectors recommend keeping these in “flips” (cardboard and plastic holders) to preserve their current state. Using CoinHix can provide you with a baseline estimate, helping you decide if your coin is a “top pop” (the highest grade known) or just a nice keepsake.
If you do happen to have a coin that looks flawless under a magnifying glass, the investment in grading could potentially turn a $20 coin into a $200 coin. High-grade Deep Cameo examples are rare because the dies used to strike them wear down quickly. The first few hundred coins struck with a new die are the only ones capable of achieving the highest grades.
Where to Sell Your 1979-S Washington Quarter
If you’ve determined that your coin has value, the next step is finding a buyer. For coins worth under $20, local coin shops are rarely interested unless you have a large bulk collection. Your best bet for selling a Type 2 Clear S is likely an online marketplace like eBay. Collectors searching for specific varieties often browse these platforms to fill gaps in their Washington Quarter albums.
When listing your coin, ensure you take high-quality, macro photos of the mint mark. This is the “money shot” that buyers need to see to verify if it is a Type 1 or Type 2. Be honest about any “haze” or fingerprinting on the surface, as proof coin collectors are very particular about eye appeal. Accurate descriptions and clear photos are the keys to getting the best price for your 1979-S quarter.
| Sales Venue | Best For… |
|---|---|
| eBay | Individual High-Value Grades & Varieties |
| Local Coin Shop | Quick Cash for Bulk Proof Sets |
| Heritage Auctions | Certified PR70 Deep Cameo Specimens |
FAQ about the 1979-S Quarter
Q: Is the 1979-S quarter made of silver?
A: No, the 1979-S quarter is a clad coin made of copper and nickel. The U.S. Mint did not produce silver quarters for general proof sets in 1979.
Q: How can I tell if my “S” is a Type 1 or Type 2?
A: Look at the mint mark under a magnifying glass. If the “S” looks like a solid blob with little to no detail, it is a Type 1. If the “S” has clear, bulbous ends and the background is visible inside the loops, it is a Type 2.
Q: Why is my 1979-S quarter worth more than a regular 1979 quarter?
A: Quarters with the “S” mint mark were Proof strikes intended for collectors and produced in much lower quantities than the Philadelphia (P) or Denver (D) coins.
Q: Can I find a 1979-S quarter in circulation?
A: It is rare, but it happens. If someone breaks open a proof set to spend the money, these coins enter circulation. However, once they are circulated, they lose a lot of their collector value.
Q: What is the highest price ever paid for a 1979-S quarter?
A: Perfect PR70 Deep Cameo Type 2 specimens have sold for over $150 at major auctions, though most average proof versions sell for under $10.
