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The 1950-S/S Washington Quarter is a noteworthy coin in the realm of American numismatics, distinguished by its unique minting error that has intrigued collectors and enthusiasts alike. The Washington Quarter was first minted in 1932, created to commemorate the 200th anniversary of George Washington's birth. Designed by sculptor John Flanagan, the coin features a profile of the first President of the United States on the obverse and an eagle on the reverse, symbolizing strength and freedom. The 1950-S/S variety adds an interesting twist to the series, as it showcases the coin's history and the intricacies of the minting process during that era.
The Washington Quarter series was introduced during a period of economic recovery in the United States, following the Great Depression. The design was intended to be a more modern representation of American values, and its introduction was met with enthusiasm from the public. As the years progressed, the coin became a staple in American currency, used for everyday transactions. The 1950-S minting marks the end of an era for the quarter, as it was among the last coins to feature the original design before it underwent significant changes in subsequent decades.
The 1950-S/S variety is particularly significant due to the double mintmark error, which resulted from the coin being re-struck with the 'S' mintmark over an existing 'S' mintmark. This error has created a fascinating subset of the Washington Quarter series that collectors seek out. The extra 'S' is visible on the coin, providing a visual cue that distinguishes it from other 1950-S quarters. Such errors occur occasionally in coin production and can increase a coin's value and desirability among collectors, making this specific variety a highlight for enthusiasts.
As for the design, the obverse of the Washington Quarter features a left-facing profile of George Washington, encircled by the inscriptions "LIBERTY" and the year of minting. The reverse showcases an eagle perched atop an olive branch and arrows, representing peace and strength. The coin's inscriptions include "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" and "QUARTER DOLLAR," solidifying its identity as a valued piece of currency. The artistry of the design reflects the dignity and historical significance of Washington, reinforcing his status as a revered figure in American history.
The 1950-S/S Washington Quarter was produced at the San Francisco Mint, which has a storied history in the U.S. Mint system. Established in 1937, the San Francisco Mint has been instrumental in producing coinage for the Western United States, and it is known for producing high-quality coins, including many sought-after varieties. The 1950-S/S variety's mintage was approximately 2,734,000 coins, with the double mintmark making this particular version even rarer. The combination of limited mintage and the unique error makes the 1950-S/S Quarter a desirable addition for collectors.
In terms of condition, the 1950-S/S Washington Quarter in Extra Fine (EF) grade exhibits a moderate level of wear, with all major design elements still visible and legible. In an EF state, the coin showcases its fine details, such as the intricate hairlines on Washington's portrait and the feathers of the eagle on the reverse. While some flattening may occur on the high points, the overall appearance of the coin remains appealing, making it a strong candidate for display or collection.
The interest in the 1950-S/S Washington Quarter has grown over the years, as collectors become increasingly fascinated by mint errors and their stories. The combination of historical significance, artistic design, and the allure of an error coin contributes to its desirability. The 1950-S/S quarter stands as a testament to the craftsmanship of the U.S. Mint and the intricate process involved in producing American currency.
In summary, the 1950-S/S Washington Quarter in Extra Fine condition is a significant piece of American coinage, encapsulating a unique blend of history, artistry, and rarity. Its distinct design, coupled with the intriguing double mintmark error, makes it a standout collectible in the Washington Quarter series. Collectors and enthusiasts alike appreciate the 1950-S/S quarter not only for its aesthetic value but also for the narrative it tells about the evolution of American currency and the errors that can occur during the minting process.