The 2021-D Washington Crossing the Delaware Quarter holds a special place in U.S. Mint history. This unique coin honors a critical moment from the Revolutionary War while marking a transition between two major quarter series.
Below, we’ll explore what makes this quarter so captivating, from its design elements to its collectible value in today’s market.
Overview of the 2021-D Washington Crossing the Delaware Quarter
Released in April 2021, the 2021-D Washington Crossing the Delaware Quarter commemorates George Washington’s famous crossing of the Delaware River—a pivotal event in American history.
This coin bridges the end of the America the Beautiful Quarters series (2010–2021) with the start of the American Women Quarters series (2022). This transitional nature has added appeal for collectors, who value both its historical significance and its role in numismatic history.
Coin Design and Specifications
Obverse Design (Front)
The front of the 2021-D quarter features the classic profile of George Washington, designed by sculptor John Flanagan in 1932. This iconic portrait has appeared on quarters since the original Washington Quarter. Inscriptions on the obverse include:
- LIBERTY
- IN GOD WE TRUST
- 2021
This familiar design pays homage to earlier quarters and appeals to both new collectors and seasoned numismatists.
Reverse Design (Back)
The reverse side, crafted by designer Benjamin Sowards and sculptor Michael Gaudioso, captures the powerful scene of Washington leading his troops across the icy Delaware River. The inscriptions include:
- CROSSING THE DELAWARE
- E PLURIBUS UNUM
- QUARTER DOLLAR
The reverse design embodies courage and determination, making it one of the most admired quarter designs of recent years.
Coin Specifications
The 2021-D Washington Crossing the Delaware Quarter is made from an alloy of 75% copper and 25% nickel, bonded to a pure copper core. Here’s a quick look at its specifications:
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Composition | Copper-Nickel Alloy |
| Weight | 5.67 grams |
| Diameter | 24.26 mm |
| Edge | Reeded |
| Mint Mark | D (Denver) |
Mintage and Rarity
The Denver Mint produced approximately 865.4 million units of the 2021-D quarter, making it widely available. While high mintage numbers suggest it’s not rare, its unique status as a transitional coin and the possibility of finding error varieties add to its collectibility.
Value and Collectibility
While circulated 2021-D quarters hold a face value of $0.25, uncirculated and high-grade versions can be worth more, especially those with unique features or errors.
Value of Uncirculated Coins
Uncirculated 2021-D quarters graded between MS60 and MS65 can command around $1.16 in the collector market, while those rated MS66 or higher are considered premium pieces. The highest known sale to date was for an MS69-graded quarter, which sold for $995 in a 2022 eBay auction.
Error Coins
Error coins from the 2021-D Washington Crossing the Delaware issue have become particularly desirable among collectors. Some notable errors include:
- Feeder Finger Error – This error is visible on the reverse side, appearing as parallel ridges caused by a malfunction in the coin feeder.
- Crown Die Chip Error – A small die chip on Washington’s crown results in a raised area on the coin, making it a distinctive and valuable find.
Uncirculated error coins may fetch prices up to $30 or more, depending on the rarity and condition of the error.
Comparison with Other 2021 Quarter Varieties
While the 2021-D quarter is a popular collectible, other 2021 varieties also hold interest. Some of these include quarters produced at the Philadelphia and San Francisco Mints, each with unique features and mintage numbers that contribute to their collectibility.
Collectors often look for variations and low-mintage editions to add value to their collections.
Collecting Tips for the 2021-D Quarter
To get the most out of collecting the 2021-D Washington Crossing the Delaware Quarter, consider the following strategies:
- Focus on High Grades – Coins graded MS66 or higher are more valuable due to their superior quality and relative scarcity.
- Look for Error Coins – Error coins like the Feeder Finger and Crown Die Chip varieties add significant value to collections.
- Store Properly – Preserving the condition of your coins is crucial. Use protective cases or holders to prevent exposure and handling damage.
- Consider Professional Grading – For coins in exceptional condition, consider having them professionally graded to authenticate their quality.
- Compare with Other Transitional Coins – Collecting other transitional coins can provide a fuller understanding of this unique period in U.S. Mint history.
Conclusion
The 2021-D Washington Crossing the Delaware Quarter is more than just currency—it’s a piece of American history. Its role as a transitional coin between two popular series, combined with its appealing design, makes it an intriguing choice for collectors.
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced collector, this quarter offers a unique opportunity to own a distinctive piece of U.S. Mint heritage. With high-grade coins and error varieties available, this quarter promises both historical and collectible value for years to come.
FAQs
The 2021-D quarter is special because it serves as a transition between the America the Beautiful and American Women quarter series. It also honors a key event in American history, adding to its appeal for collectors.
In circulated condition, it’s worth face value. Uncirculated versions graded MS60–MS65 may be worth around $1.16, while those graded MS66 or higher can command even higher prices. Error coins can also increase in value.
Notable errors include the Feeder Finger Error and Crown Die Chip Error, both of which make these coins unique and desirable to collectors.
Storing your coin in a protective case, minimizing handling, and keeping it in a dry environment can help preserve its condition and value.
The highest recorded sale for a 2021-D Washington Crossing the Delaware Quarter was $995 for an MS69-graded coin in a 2022 eBay auction.
READ MORE: Collector’s Guide to the 2021-D Washington Crossing the Delaware Quarter
