1996-D Washington Quarter Dollar

This is a United States Washington Quarter Dollar coin minted in 1996 at the Denver Mint, indicated by the 'D' mint mark clearly visible on the lower right of George Washington's bust. The coin is composed of a copper-nickel clad over a pure copper core, resulting in a distinct silver-colored metallic appearance with a reeded edge. The obverse features the iconic profile of George Washington facing left, based on the original 1932 design by John Flanagan. The word 'LIBERTY' is arched across the top, 'IN GOD WE TRUST' is positioned in the lower-left field, and the date '1996' is centered at the bottom. The condition of the coin appears to be 'Circulated,' exhibiting significant surface wear, numerous contact marks, and scuffs across the fields and high points of Washington's hair and cheek. There is a noticeable dark speck on the forehead and general dulling of the original luster due to handling. The strike appears standard for the era, with no obvious mint errors such as doubling or misalignments. This piece represents the standard American currency used just before the initiation of the 50 State Quarters Program in 1999.

I have examined the digital representation of this 1996-D Washington Quarter. Based on the visible characteristics, the coin is a genuine business-strike issue from the Denver Mint. The assessment confirms a 'Circulated' condition, likely grading in the Fine to Very Fine (F-VF) range. The surface exhibits significant contact marks, scuffs, and a loss of original mint luster, transitioning into a dull, greyish patina typical of transactional wear. My analysis confirms the presence of the 'D' mint mark. From a numismatic standpoint, the 1996-D is a high-mintage issue with over 900 million struck. In circulated condition, these coins do not carry a premium over their face value. Market comparables for circulated specimens show they are routinely found in pocket change or sold in bulk rolls at face value. Only specimens graded in high Mint State (MS67 or higher) by services like PCGS or NGC command significant premiums. Factors such as the dark speck on the forehead and general abrasions further limit its appeal to serious collectors. There are no rare varieties or errors present to elevate its market standing. Please note that while the visual characteristics align with a genuine US Mint product, a definitive authentication requires physical inspection to verify weight (5.67g), diameter (24.3mm), and metallic composition via XRF testing to rule out sophisticated counterfeits. Verification of the 'reeded edge' and copper core visibility is also essential. Without a physical handled review, this appraisal is based solely on the provided digital description and visual indicators.