What is a 1947 quarter dollar?
The 1947 quarter dollar is a United States coin that was minted in 1947. It is made of silver and has a value of 25 cents. The coin features a design by John Flanagan that depicts George Washington on the obverse and an American eagle on the reverse.
The 1947 quarter dollar is a popular coin among collectors. It is one of the last coins to be minted in silver before the United States switched to clad coinage in 1965. The coin is also notable for its high relief design, which gives it a three-dimensional appearance.
The 1947 quarter dollar has been used in a variety of ways throughout its history. It was originally used as currency, but it is now primarily used as a collector's item. The coin has also been used in jewelry and other decorative items.
The 1947 quarter dollar is a significant coin in American history. It is a reminder of a time when the United States was still using silver coinage. The coin is also a beautiful work of art that is enjoyed by collectors around the world.
1947 quarter dollar
The 1947 quarter dollar is a significant coin in American history, with several key aspects that contribute to its importance:
- Design: The coin's design by John Flanagan features a bold depiction of George Washington on the obverse and an American eagle on the reverse.
- Composition: The coin is made of 90% silver, making it one of the last silver coins minted in the United States before the switch to clad coinage.
- Mintage: The 1947 quarter dollar had a mintage of over 220 million coins, making it a relatively common coin today.
- History: The coin was released during a period of post-World War II economic growth and prosperity in the United States.
- Value: The coin's silver content gives it a melt value of around $4, while its collector value can vary depending on its condition and rarity.
- Legacy: The 1947 quarter dollar is a reminder of a time when the United States used silver coinage and is a popular coin among collectors today.
These key aspects highlight the historical, numismatic, and cultural significance of the 1947 quarter dollar, making it an important coin in American history.
1. Design
The design of the 1947 quarter dollar is significant for several reasons:
- Artistic Merit: John Flanagan's design is considered one of the most beautiful and iconic in American coinage. The bold depiction of George Washington on the obverse and the American eagle on the reverse are both striking and memorable.
- Historical Significance: The design of the 1947 quarter dollar reflects the post-World War II era in the United States. George Washington, the father of the nation, is featured on the obverse, while the American eagle on the reverse symbolizes the strength and power of the United States.
- Cultural Impact: The 1947 quarter dollar design has been widely used in popular culture, appearing on everything from postage stamps to commemorative plates. The coin's design is instantly recognizable and has become a symbol of American history and heritage.
The design of the 1947 quarter dollar is an important part of the coin's legacy. It is a beautiful and iconic design that reflects the history and culture of the United States.
2. Composition
The composition of the 1947 quarter dollar is significant for several reasons:
- Silver Content: The coin's 90% silver content gives it a higher intrinsic value than clad coins, which are made of a copper-nickel alloy. This makes the 1947 quarter dollar a popular choice for investors and collectors.
- Historical Significance: The 1947 quarter dollar is one of the last silver coins minted in the United States before the switch to clad coinage in 1965. This makes it a reminder of a time when the United States used silver coinage.
- Collector Value: The silver content and historical significance of the 1947 quarter dollar make it a valuable coin for collectors. The coin's value can vary depending on its condition and rarity.
The composition of the 1947 quarter dollar is an important part of the coin's legacy. It is a reminder of a time when the United States used silver coinage and is a popular choice for investors and collectors today.
3. Mintage
The mintage of the 1947 quarter dollar is significant for several reasons:
- Availability: The high mintage of the 1947 quarter dollar makes it a relatively common coin today. This means that it is easy to find and purchase, making it a popular choice for collectors and investors.
- Historical Significance: The high mintage of the 1947 quarter dollar is a reflection of the economic growth and prosperity of the United States in the post-World War II era.
- Collector Value: While the high mintage of the 1947 quarter dollar makes it a common coin, certain varieties and errors can be quite valuable to collectors.
The mintage of the 1947 quarter dollar is an important factor to consider when evaluating the coin's availability, historical significance, and collector value.
4. History
The connection between the 1947 quarter dollar and the post-World War II economic growth and prosperity in the United States is significant. The coin was released in 1947, just two years after the end of the war. The United States had emerged from the war as a global superpower, and the economy was booming. This economic growth and prosperity was reflected in the design of the 1947 quarter dollar.
The obverse of the coin features a bold depiction of George Washington, the father of the nation. This image symbolizes the strength and stability of the United States. The reverse of the coin features an American eagle, a symbol of freedom and power. These images reflect the confidence and optimism that Americans felt in the post-war era.
The 1947 quarter dollar is a reminder of a time of great economic growth and prosperity in the United States. The coin's design reflects the confidence and optimism that Americans felt in the post-war era.
Understanding the connection between the 1947 quarter dollar and the post-World War II economic growth and prosperity in the United States is important for several reasons. First, it helps us to understand the historical context in which the coin was created. Second, it helps us to appreciate the symbolism of the coin's design. Third, it helps us to understand the role that coinage can play in reflecting the values and aspirations of a nation.
5. Value
The value of a 1947 quarter dollar is determined by several factors, including its silver content, condition, and rarity.
- Silver content: The 1947 quarter dollar is made of 90% silver, which gives it a melt value of around $4. This means that the coin is worth at least $4, even if it is in poor condition.
- Condition: The condition of a coin is also a factor in its value. A coin that is in mint condition is worth more than a coin that is circulated or damaged. The Sheldon grading scale is used to determine the condition of coins, with a grade of 70 being the highest possible grade.
- Rarity: The rarity of a coin also affects its value. Some coins are more rare than others, and this can make them more valuable. The 1947 quarter dollar is a relatively common coin, but there are some rare varieties that can be worth a lot of money.
The value of a 1947 quarter dollar can vary depending on the specific factors mentioned above. However, even a common coin in good condition is worth at least its melt value of around $4. This makes the 1947 quarter dollar a valuable coin to own, both for its historical significance and its potential financial value.
6. Legacy
The legacy of the 1947 quarter dollar is multifaceted and reflects its historical significance, enduring popularity, and cultural impact:
- Historical Significance: The 1947 quarter dollar is a tangible reminder of a time when the United States used silver coinage. The coin's composition, design, and mintage all reflect the economic and cultural context of the post-World War II era.
- Collector Popularity: The 1947 quarter dollar is a popular coin among collectors for several reasons. Its silver content gives it intrinsic value, its design is considered one of the most beautiful in American coinage, and its relatively high mintage makes it accessible to collectors of all levels.
- Cultural Impact: The 1947 quarter dollar has been featured in popular culture, including postage stamps, commemorative plates, and even a television show. The coin's iconic design and historical significance have made it a recognizable symbol of American heritage.
In conclusion, the legacy of the 1947 quarter dollar is a testament to its historical, numismatic, and cultural importance. The coin is a reminder of a time when the United States used silver coinage, a popular collectible among enthusiasts, and an enduring symbol of American history.
FAQs on "1947 Quarter Dollar"
This section provides answers to frequently asked questions about the 1947 Quarter Dollar, offering insights into its history, value, and significance.
Question 1: What is the significance of the 1947 Quarter Dollar?
The 1947 Quarter Dollar holds historical importance as one of the last coins minted in the United States using silver before the transition to clad coinage in 1965. Its distinctive design and high silver content make it a popular item among collectors.
Question 2: How much is a 1947 Quarter Dollar worth?
The value of a 1947 Quarter Dollar varies depending on its condition, rarity, and silver content. Common coins in good condition are worth around $4 for their silver content, while rare varieties and higher grades can command significantly higher prices.
Question 3: What are the identifying characteristics of a 1947 Quarter Dollar?
The 1947 Quarter Dollar features a bold depiction of George Washington on the obverse and an American eagle on the reverse, both designed by John Flanagan. The coin's edge is reeded, and the words "United States of America" and "Quarter Dollar" are inscribed along the rim.
Question 4: Is the 1947 Quarter Dollar made of solid silver?
Yes, the 1947 Quarter Dollar is composed of 90% silver, with the remaining 10% consisting of copper. This composition gives the coin a higher intrinsic value compared to later clad coins.
Question 5: Where can I find more information about the 1947 Quarter Dollar?
There are numerous resources available for further exploration of the 1947 Quarter Dollar. Coin collecting websites, numismatic books, and online forums provide detailed information about its history, value, and collecting trends.
In summary, the 1947 Quarter Dollar is a significant coin in American history, valued by collectors for its silver content, distinctive design, and historical context. Its legacy as a symbol of post-World War II economic growth and prosperity continues to fascinate and intrigue numismatists.
Transition to the next article section: Exploring the Historical Significance of the 1947 Quarter Dollar
1947 Quarter Dollar
The 1947 Quarter Dollar stands as a testament to American history, economic growth, and the enduring allure of silver coinage. Its distinctive design, high silver content, and relatively high mintage make it a popular collectible among numismatists. The coin serves as a tangible reminder of a time when the United States used silver in its currency and exudes a sense of strength and prosperity that characterized the post-World War II era.
While the 1947 Quarter Dollar's melt value alone makes it a worthwhile addition to any collection, its historical significance and numismatic value elevate it beyond mere monetary worth. It is a coin that embodies the spirit of a nation and continues to captivate collectors and enthusiasts alike. As a symbol of American heritage, the 1947 Quarter Dollar will undoubtedly remain a cherished piece of history for generations to come.
