I pointed out in two photos of what I see. Take note of the collar area on the reverse, note what should be the collar area, the reeding rim is visible straight on. Use the enlarging feature for a closer look at the quarter.
The Enigmatic 1990-D Washington Quarter: A Study in Minting Errors
Introduction: The world of numismatics is a fascinating realm where ordinary coins can become extraordinary artifacts due to a unique characteristic: a minting error. One such coin that has captivated collectors and enthusiasts is the 1990-D Washington Quarter. While millions of these coins were produced for circulation, a select few bear a distinct set of anomalies that elevate them from common currency to a collector’s treasure. These errors, specifically a “Double-Die Mint Mark” and a “Wing Die Clash,” tell a story of a momentary lapse in the minting process, making each of these coins a tangible piece of history.
The 1990-D Washington Quarter: A Brief Overview: The Washington Quarter, first introduced in 1932 to commemorate the 200th anniversary of George Washington’s birth, has been a staple of American currency. The “D” mint mark on the coin’s obverse indicates that it was struck at the Denver Mint. In 1990, the U.S. Mint produced an enormous number of these quarters to meet the nation’s needs. However, within this vast production run, some coins emerged with noticeable imperfections that are highly sought after by collectors. The image provided highlights some of these key errors, which we will now explore in detail.
The Double-Die Mint Mark: A double die error occurs when the coin’s die is struck twice by the master hub, with a slight shift in alignment between the strikes. This results in a doubled image on the coin. While the most famous double-die errors are often seen in the date or the lettering, the 1990-D Washington Quarter exhibits a double die on its mint mark. As shown in the image, the “D” mint mark, located to the right of Washington’s braid, appears slightly blurred or shadowed. Upon close inspection with a magnifying glass, the doubling becomes more apparent, with a subtle second outline visible alongside the primary “D.” This particular error is a testament to the precision required in the minting process and how even a minuscule deviation can create a valuable variety. The doubling is not always easily visible to the naked eye, which adds to the excitement of the hunt for collectors who meticulously examine each coin.
The Wing Die Clash: Perhaps the most intriguing and unique error on this 1990-D quarter is the “Wing Die Clash.” A die clash happens when the obverse and reverse dies strike each other without a coin blank in between. This often leaves an incused (indented) image of one die’s design on the other. In this specific case, the reverse die, which features the majestic eagle, has left a faint impression on the obverse die. The image indicates a ghost-like outline of a wing near Washington’s chin and chest area, where the eagle’s wing would have made contact. This “clash” creates a surreal and ghostly effect, as if the eagle from the reverse is subtly superimposed on Washington’s profile. The term “Wing Die Clash” is a descriptive name given to this specific error due to the distinct impression of the eagle’s wing. It’s an error that tells a clear story of what happened at the moment of minting—a rare and fortunate accident for those who later discover the coin.
Other Potential Errors and Characteristics: While the Double-Die Mint Mark and the Wing Die Clash are the most significant errors on this particular coin, the image also points to other areas of interest. The red arrows around the rim may indicate a few things, such as rim cuds, which are small raised areas caused by a piece of the die breaking off. They could also be pointing to minor nicks or scratches that are not mint errors but are part of the coin’s journey through circulation. The red circle around Washington’s face and the “IN GOD WE TRUST” motto might highlight areas where the doubling from a possible double-die obverse is being examined. These subtle details, when combined, create a complex and layered numismatic artifact.
Conclusion: The 1990-D Washington Quarter with a Double-Die Mint Mark and a Wing Die Clash is a prime example of how errors can transform a mass-produced item into a numismatic rarity. These coins are not just currency; they are historical records of a specific moment in time at the Denver Mint. They embody the delicate balance of precision and chance in the manufacturing process. For collectors, owning such a coin is like holding a piece of a story—a story of a die clash, a misaligned strike, and the resulting unique beauty that emerges from imperfection. The hunt for these specific errors continues to be a rewarding pursuit for collectors, making the 1990-D Washington Quarter a cherished piece in the pantheon of U.S. numismatic errors.
