In 2019, the United States Mint introduced a unique series of quarters that have since become highly coveted by collectors: the 2019-W quarters.
These coins, bearing the “W” mint mark of the West Point Mint, were the first quarters from this facility released into general circulation, marking a significant milestone in U.S. coinage history.
The Significance of the “W” Mint Mark
Traditionally, the West Point Mint has been associated with the production of commemorative and bullion coins. The decision to produce circulating quarters with the “W” mint mark was a strategic move by the U.S. Mint to spark renewed interest in coin collecting.
By releasing these quarters directly into circulation, the Mint aimed to create a modern treasure hunt for enthusiasts and the general public alike.
Rarity and Mintage Figures
The rarity of the 2019-W quarters is a primary factor contributing to their desirability. For each of the five designs released in 2019, only 2 million quarters were minted with the “W” mark, totaling 10 million coins.
This is a stark contrast to the hundreds of millions produced at the Philadelphia and Denver Mints. To illustrate, the Philadelphia Mint produced 165.8 million of the Lowell National Historical Park quarters, while the Denver Mint produced 182.2 million of the same design.
In comparison, the 2 million Lowell quarters from West Point represent a minuscule fraction of the total mintage.
Designs of the 2019-W Quarters
The 2019-W quarters are part of the America the Beautiful series, each featuring a unique reverse design honoring a national site:
- Lowell National Historical Park (Massachusetts): Depicts a mill girl operating a power loom, symbolizing the industrial revolution.
- American Memorial Park (Northern Mariana Islands): Features a young woman in traditional attire, standing before the Flag Circle and Court of Honor.
- War in the Pacific National Historical Park (Guam): Illustrates American forces landing on the beach during World War II.
- San Antonio Missions National Historical Park (Texas): Showcases elements representing the missions: arches and a bell, a lion, a wheat sheaf, and waves.
- Frank Church River of No Return Wilderness (Idaho): Displays a drift boat navigating the rugged river terrain.
Value and Market Trends
The limited mintage and historical significance of the 2019-W quarters have led to substantial market value, especially for coins in superior condition. Uncirculated specimens typically command prices starting around $20 to $30.
However, coins graded at higher Mint State levels, such as MS-66 or MS-67, can fetch significantly higher prices. Notably, the 2019-W Frank Church River of No Return quarter is considered the scarcest in high grades, with top-condition examples selling for several hundred dollars.
Collecting the 2019-W Quarters
For collectors aiming to acquire these quarters, several approaches can be considered:
- Searching Bank Rolls: Examining rolls or bags of quarters from banks offers the excitement of discovery at face value. However, this method can be time-consuming and competitive.
- Purchasing from Dealers: Acquiring individual coins or sets from reputable dealers provides a straightforward option, though often at a premium over face value.
- Online Auctions: Platforms like eBay feature listings for 2019-W quarters, allowing collectors to bid on coins of varying conditions and prices.
| Design | Philadelphia Mint | Denver Mint | West Point Mint |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lowell National Historical Park | 165,800,000 | 182,200,000 | 2,000,000 |
| American Memorial Park | 142,800,000 | 182,600,000 | 2,000,000 |
| War in the Pacific National Historical Park | 116,600,000 | 114,400,000 | 2,000,000 |
| San Antonio Missions National Historical Park | 142,800,000 | 129,400,000 | 2,000,000 |
| Frank Church River of No Return Wilderness | 223,400,000 | 251,600,000 | 2,000,000 |
Conclusion
The 2019-W quarters represent a unique convergence of limited mintage, historical significance, and artistic design, making them a collector’s dream.
Their introduction not only added a new chapter to U.S. numismatic history but also reignited public interest in coin collecting, turning everyday transactions into potential treasure hunts.
FAQs
Why are the 2019-W quarters significant?
They are the first circulating quarters to feature the West Point Mint’s “W” mint mark, with a limited mintage of 2 million per design.
How can I identify a 2019-W quarter?
Look for the “W” mint mark located on the obverse side of the coin, to the right of George Washington’s portrait.
What factors influence the value of a 2019-W quarter?
Condition (grade), rarity, and demand are key factors. Higher-grade coins and those with unique characteristics command higher prices.
Are there any known errors in the 2019-W quarters?
While modern minting processes minimize errors, some anomalies may exist. Consulting a numismatic expert can provide insights into specific coins.
Where can I purchase 2019-W quarters?
They can be found through coin dealers, online marketplaces like eBay, and occasionally in circulation, though the latter is increasingly rare.
