The 2021-S Washington Crossing the Delaware Quarter is not just any coin; it’s a piece of history that has captured the interest of collectors and history enthusiasts across the United States. Released after the America the Beautiful Quarters Program, this quarter features a famous moment from the Revolutionary War, showcasing George Washington’s daring crossing of the Delaware River. In this article, we’ll explore the design, history, and value of this remarkable coin.
Background of the 2021-S Washington Crossing the Delaware Quarter
The 2021-S Washington Crossing the Delaware Quarter was launched by the U.S. Mint after the America the Beautiful Quarters Program ended in January 2021. This quarter was introduced just before the American Women Quarters Program started in 2022. The design was revealed on Christmas Day in 2020, marking the 244th anniversary of Washington’s brave crossing in 1776.
If it weren’t for the American Women Quarters Program, this design could have appeared on many future quarters. The coin was minted at the San Francisco Mint and is available in two types: a regular clad version and a .999 fine silver version, which is included in the 2021 Silver Proof Set.
Coin Design Details
Obverse (Front) Design
The front of the coin shows a portrait of George Washington, created by artist John Flanagan. This image has been used since 1932 but was briefly replaced during the 50 State Quarters Program. Washington faces left, surrounded by the words “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST.” You will also find the date “2021” and the mintmark “S,” indicating it was produced in San Francisco.
Reverse (Back) Design
The back of the coin illustrates the dramatic scene of Washington leading his troops across the Delaware River. He stands tall with his sword drawn, while soldiers row in the background. This side includes inscriptions like “CROSSING THE DELAWARE,” “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA,” “E PLURIBUS UNUM,” and “QUARTER DOLLAR.”
Edge
The edge of the quarter features a reeded design, which is a common trait of U.S. quarters. This texture not only adds to the coin’s look but also makes it easier to hold.
Value of the 2021-S Washington Crossing the Delaware Quarter Silver Proof
As of now, the price of silver is around $32 per ounce, which means the silver in the 2021-S Silver Proof quarter is worth about $7. However, because this coin is highly sought after by collectors, its actual market value can be much higher. Below is a table showing typical selling prices based on the coin’s condition.
Market Value Table
| Condition | Price Range | Additional Notes |
|---|---|---|
| PR70DCAM (PCGS/NGC) | $62 – $99 | Perfect condition, graded Deep Cameo or Ultra Cameo |
| Raw (Uncirculated, not graded) | $15 – $30 | In excellent condition but not graded |
| PR70DCAM (First Strike) | $40 – $80 | Early release label adds to value |
From this table, you can see that coins in perfect condition, especially those labeled as “First Strike,” fetch the highest prices.
Noteworthy Specimens and Market Data
Collectors are particularly interested in high-grade versions of the 2021-S Washington Crossing the Delaware Silver Proof. Many of these coins can be found on platforms like eBay. Some notable sales include:
- PCGS PR70DCAM: Sold for $99 on September 25, 2024, as part of a limited edition Proof set.
- NGC PF70UCAM: Sold for $75 on August 9, 2024, featuring a special Washington Crossing the Delaware label.
These sales highlight the strong demand for top-quality versions of this coin, especially those with unique labels or from limited editions.
Coin Specifications
Here are some key details about the coin:
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Year of Issue | 2021 |
| Mintmark | S (San Francisco) |
| Mintage | 350,323 |
| Alloy | .999 fine silver |
| Weight | 6.343 grams |
| Diameter | 24.30 mm |
| Obverse Designer | John Flanagan |
| Reverse Designers | Benjamin Sowards (Design), Michael Gaudioso (Sculpting) |
Conclusion
The 2021-S Washington Crossing the Delaware Quarter Silver Proof is a captivating coin for both collectors and history lovers. Its limited production, significant historical relevance, and beautiful design make it a valuable addition to any collection. While the silver content provides some base value, the real worth of this coin lies in its condition and rarity. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a beginner, owning this coin means having a piece of American history that tells a remarkable story.
FAQ’S
1. What is the significance of the 2021-S Washington Crossing the Delaware Quarter?
The 2021-S Washington Crossing the Delaware Quarter commemorates a pivotal moment in American history, showcasing George Washington’s daring crossing of the Delaware River during the Revolutionary War. This event is celebrated for its importance in the fight for independence.
2. How is the 2021-S Washington Crossing the Delaware Quarter different from other quarters?
This quarter is unique because it was released after the America the Beautiful Quarters Program and before the American Women Quarters Program. Its design specifically honors a historical event, making it a standout piece for collectors and history enthusiasts.
3. What are the two versions of the 2021-S Quarter available?
The 2021-S Washington Crossing the Delaware Quarter is available in two versions: a regular clad version and a .999 fine silver version. The silver version is often more sought after by collectors due to its metal content and potential for higher value.