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The 1942-D Washington Quarter, certified MS65 by ICG, is a standout example from a pivotal time in U.S. history. The Washington Quarter series, introduced in 1932 to commemorate the 200th anniversary of George Washington's birth, had quickly become one of the most beloved coins in American circulation. By 1942, the United States had fully transitioned into the war economy, with World War II influencing almost every aspect of American life, including coin production. The 1942-D Washington Quarter, struck at the Denver Mint, is part of this wartime coinage, and its MS65 grade attests to its excellent preservation over the decades, surviving with virtually no wear and maintaining its original mint luster.
The obverse of the 1942-D Washington Quarter features a right-facing profile of George Washington, designed by sculptor John Flanagan. This design was originally created for the 1932 commemorative quarter but became the permanent design due to its popularity. Washington’s portrait is classical and dignified, symbolizing his role as the nation’s founding father and first president. Above Washington’s head is the word "LIBERTY," while the motto "IN GOD WE TRUST" is inscribed to the left. Below his portrait is the year "1942." The simplicity and clarity of the design have made it an enduring favorite in U.S. coinage. The MS65 grade ensures that this coin's details, such as Washington’s hair and facial features, are sharply defined and free of the wear that is commonly found on lower-grade examples.
The reverse of the 1942-D Washington Quarter showcases a heraldic eagle with wings outstretched, perched on a bundle of arrows. This eagle design, also by John Flanagan, represents the strength and resilience of the United States. The arrows symbolize the nation's readiness to defend itself, while the olive branches encircling the arrows represent the nation's desire for peace. Above the eagle’s head, the words "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" curve along the rim of the coin, while "E PLURIBUS UNUM" is inscribed just below the eagle’s wings. At the bottom of the reverse, the denomination "QUARTER DOLLAR" is prominently displayed. The reverse design is bold and dynamic, reinforcing the themes of strength, peace, and unity that were especially important during the wartime period in which this coin was minted.
The 1942-D Washington Quarter was struck at the Denver Mint, as indicated by the "D" mint mark located on the reverse, just below the wreath. The Denver Mint was established in 1906 and played a crucial role in producing U.S. coinage, particularly in the western states, where demand for coins was high. In 1942, the Denver Mint produced 17,487,200 Washington Quarters, a substantial mintage that reflected the growing need for coinage during the war years. While the mintage of the 1942-D Quarter was relatively high compared to earlier years, many of these coins entered circulation and saw heavy use, making high-grade, uncirculated examples like this MS65 piece much rarer today. The Denver Mint was known for producing coins with strong strikes, and this is evident in the crisp details of this MS65 Washington Quarter.
The mintage of the 1942-D Washington Quarter occurred during a time of great uncertainty and transformation in the United States. The nation had entered World War II the previous year, and the economy had shifted to support the war effort. Coinage production increased to meet the demands of a growing population and expanding wartime economy. However, many coins from this era, including the 1942-D Washington Quarter, were heavily circulated, as they were essential in everyday transactions. As a result, finding coins in high grades like MS65 is a challenge, making this example particularly desirable to collectors. The 1942-D Washington Quarter not only serves as a reminder of the nation’s wartime history but also reflects the craftsmanship of the Denver Mint during this critical period.
The 1942-D Washington Quarter graded MS65 by ICG is a superb example of a coin that has been carefully preserved over time. MS65 (Mint State 65) indicates that the coin is in near-pristine condition, showing no signs of wear from circulation and retaining much of its original mint luster. In this grade, the coin’s surfaces are clean, with only minor contact marks or abrasions that are visible under magnification. These small marks are typical of coins stored in bags with other coins and do not detract from the overall eye appeal. The sharpness of the design elements, including Washington’s profile and the eagle on the reverse, is particularly noteworthy, making this coin a valuable addition to any collection of high-grade Washington Quarters.
The 1942-D Washington Quarter in MS65 condition, certified by ICG, is an exceptional piece that offers both historical and numismatic significance. Its connection to World War II, combined with its high-grade preservation, makes it a highly desirable coin for collectors of American coinage. The design by John Flanagan, which has remained largely unchanged since its introduction in 1932, is a tribute to George Washington and the ideals of strength, peace, and resilience that defined the nation during the war years. The sharp strike and brilliant luster of this MS65 example further enhance its appeal, making it a standout coin from the Denver Mint’s wartime production. For collectors seeking a high-quality, historically meaningful Washington Quarter, the 1942-D MS65 ICG is a remarkable and valuable addition to any collection.