11 Rare George Washington Coins

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George Washington, America’s first president and one of its most revered founding fathers, left an indelible mark on the nation’s history. As a true American icon, it is no surprise that his image has graced countless American coins over the centuries. From vintage pieces to modern commemoratives, the rare George Washington coin remains among the most sought-after numismatic treasures. In this article, we’ll explore the history and significance of these coins, focusing on:

  • The fascinating evolution of coins with George Washington on them
  • The remarkable value of select specimens
  • Where to find your own rare George Washington coin online

Watch this entertaining video to see a stunning Washington coin’s value revealed:

 

What coins are George Washington on?

From the iconic quarter in your pocket to rare commemorative pieces worth thousands, George Washington’s image appears on numerous U.S. coins. While not all Washington coins are considered rare or valuable, these are some of the most historically significant and sought-after specimens that collectors eagerly seek.

1. Rare George Washington dollar coin

The 2007 George Washington dollar coin kicked off the historic Presidential Dollar Series. Featuring a bold portrait of our first president on the obverse and the Statue of Liberty on the reverse – a design shared across the entire series – this manganese-brass coin marked a new chapter in American dollar coinage.

While the George Washington Dollar is not considered particularly rare due to its modern mintage, certain rare presidential dollar coins and error varieties can command significant premiums. Basic uncirculated specimens, however, remain readily available and affordable for beginning collectors.

George Washington Dollar

  • Metal: Brass
  • Year: 2007

 

 

 

 

 

 

Photo by Numista

2. George Washington half dollar coin

This George Washington Half Dollar, otherwise known as the 1982 George Washington 250th anniversary coin, was issued to commemorate the 250th anniversary of Washington’s birth. This 90% silver commemorative coin features a striking right-facing portrait of Washington on horseback on the obverse, while the reverse displays Mount Vernon, his historic Virginia estate.

The design, crafted by Elizabeth Jones, was the first commemorative U.S. coin created in nearly three decades. Two versions were minted: an uncirculated version made in Denver and a proof version struck in San Francisco.

While not among the rarest Washington coins, high-grade specimens of this George Washington commemorative coin, particularly the proof versions, are increasingly coveted by collectors who appreciate their historical significance and superior craftsmanship.

George Washington Half Dollar

  • Metal: Silver
  • Year: 1982

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Photo by Numista

3. Rare Washington quarter coin

This 1959 rare Washington quarter coin represents a cherished piece from the historic 90% silver series that ran from 1932 to 1964. Originally introduced to commemorate Washington’s 200th birth anniversary, these quarters showcase John Flanagan’s elegant design featuring the first president’s left-facing portrait on the obverse. The reverse depicts a powerful American eagle perched on arrows and an olive branch, symbolizing national defense and peace.

While millions of these Washington quarter coins were produced for circulation, their 90% silver content makes them increasingly valuable today. The 1959 specimens are particularly interesting as they represent the latter years of silver quarter production, before the 1965 switch to copper-nickel cladding. Both collectors and precious metal investors value these coins not only for their silver content but also for their historical significance as pieces of everyday American commerce from a bygone era.

90% Silver Washington Quarter

 

 

 

 

 

4. American Revolution bicentennial coin George Washington

The American Revolution Bicentennial George Washington Medal, also known as the George Washington Sons of Liberty coin, was minted in 1972 to commemorate the 200th anniversary of the American Revolution. The obverse of the medal features a detailed portrait of George Washington, while its reverse is adorned with a depiction of the Tree of Liberty, a powerful symbol of the American Revolution. The Tree of Liberty represents the resilience and freedom fought for during the war, echoing Thomas Jefferson’s famous quote about the need for liberty to be “refreshed from time to time with the blood of patriots and tyrants”.

Made of bronze, this medal is an important piece of exonumia. Although not rare, it holds historical significance and can be more valuable in higher grades or as part of a commemorative set from the Bicentennial.

American Revolution Bicentennial George Washington Medal

  • Metal: Bronze
  • Year: 1972

 

 

 

 

 

 

Photo by Numista

5. 1789 George Washington peace and friendship coin

Inspired by a historically significant design that dates back to the earliest days of American diplomacy, this coin has become a valued piece among collectors. The original peace medals were silver pieces given by George Washington to Native American leaders as symbols of friendship and diplomatic ties between the new United States and various tribes.

While not as rare as the original silver medals presented to tribal leaders, this 1904 bronze reproduction created by the U.S. Mint is more than a George Washington souvenir coin. It offers historians and collectors a meaningful connection to early American-Native American relations. Well-preserved pieces are particularly valued as early American diplomatic artifacts.

George Washington Indian Peace Medal

  • Metal: Bronze
  • Year: 1904

 

 

 

 

 

 

Photo by The National Museum of American History

6. George Washington 1st president coin

This brass token, created by the Scovill Manufacturing Company of Waterbury, Connecticut, honors George Washington’s legacy as the first president of the United States. Created during a period when commemorative tokens were popular promotional items, its obverse displays Washington’s bust, while the reverse features the titles “Father of His Country” and “American Fabius” along with the tribute: “FIRST IN WAR FIRST IN PEACE FIRST IN THE HEARTS OF HIS COUNTRYMEN SERVED EIGHT YEARS AS PRESIDENT WITHOUT PAY”.

Scovill, a pioneer in American industrial manufacturing, produced this token as part of a broader range of consumer goods, including buttons and political memorabilia. While not legal tender, these tokens were often distributed at celebrations, fairs, or historic events related to Washington’s legacy. Though not especially rare, this George Washington coin token is valued among collectors for its craftsmanship and connection to early American manufacturing and patriotism.

George Washington Commemorative Token

  • Metal: Brass
  • Year: Early 20th century

 

 

 

 

 

Photo by The National Museum of American History

7. 1797 George Washington Masonic coin

The 1797 Masonic coin with George Washington is one of the most intriguing pieces of early American medallic art, highlighting Washington’s connection to Freemasonry. This brass medal, struck during Washington’s lifetime, features his portrait on the obverse while incorporating distinctive Masonic symbols on the reverse – a testament to his role as a prominent Freemason.

While restrikes were made in later years, authentic 1797 specimens remain among the most desirable Washington medals, particularly appealing to collectors interested in both numismatics and Masonic history.

1797 Medal Washington Masonic

  • Metal: Brass
  • Year: 1797

 

 

 

 

 

 

Photo by PCGS

8. George Washington Carver coin

The Washington – Carver Half Dollar, minted from 1951 to 1954, uniquely honors two great Americans: the U.S.A.’s first president George Washington, and agricultural scientist George Washington Carver. This commemorative silver half-dollar marks the first time an African American appeared on a U.S. coin, making it a groundbreaking piece in American numismatic history. The obverse features conjoined busts of both men, symbolizing the connection between American leadership and scientific innovation.

These coins were issued to promote racial cooperation and to fund research at the Tuskegee Institute, though sales fell short of expectations. Representing another historic instance of George Washington on a coin, well-preserved specimens hold special appeal for collectors interested in civil rights history and significant American commemoratives.

Washington – Carver Half Dollar

  • Metal: Silver
  • Year: 1951 – 1954

 

 

 

 

 

 

Photo by Numista

9. Washington crossing the Delaware coin

This 2021 Washington quarter coin pays homage to one of George Washington’s most iconic moments in the Revolutionary War. Made from copper-nickel, the coin’s reverse captures Washington standing at the bow of a boat, leading his troops across the icy Delaware River in 1776, a powerful symbol of bravery and determination. This design commemorates the bold action that helped turn the tide for American independence. On the obverse, Washington’s familiar profile remains, keeping continuity with the classic quarter design.

Though not considered particularly rare, this quarter marked a return to the single iconic image of Washington after years of diverse designs in the America the Beautiful series. Following the success of presidential coinage, like the John Adams presidential dollar, this design’s popularity with collectors shows the enduring appeal of our founding fathers on American coins.

Crossing the Delaware Washington Quarter

  • Metal: Copper-nickel
  • Year: 2021

 

 

 

 

 

 

Photo by Numista

10. George Washington funeral coin

The 1800 Washington Funeral medal is one of the rarest and most significant George Washington gold coins ever created. Struck in the year following Washington’s death, these solemn commemorative medals were produced to honor the passing of America’s first president.

The design features a funeral urn with “GW” inscribed, symbolizing the nation’s mourning. Original specimens were likely presented to Washington family members and distinguished citizens during memorial services.

Given its early American origins, historical significance, and precious metal content, this funeral medal represents the pinnacle of Washington numismatic collecting. The few surviving authentic examples, when they appear at auction, command exceptional premiums and intense interest from serious collectors of early American medals.

AV Medal Washington Funeral, Urn

  • Metal: Gold
  • Year: 1800

 

 

 

 

 

 

Photo by PCGS

11. 2007-W $10 Gold First Spouse CACG MS70 – Martha Washington

As the inaugural release in the First Spouse Gold Coin series, this $10 piece honors America’s first First Lady alongside her husband’s presidency. Minted at the West Point facility, coins graded MS70 by CACG, like the one below, represent the absolute pinnacle of mint perfection.

While the 1759 Martha Washington coin exists only as a rare test token created by the U.S. Mint for experimental purposes, this modern issue serves as an official tribute to her legacy. The coin’s obverse features a portrait of Martha Washington, while its reverse depicts her working with a seamstress in support of Revolutionary War soldiers.

Despite its modern mintage, perfect MS70 specimens of this historic first issue are increasingly valued by collectors, particularly those assembling complete First Spouse sets or specializing in presidential family commemoratives.

2007-W $10 Gold First Spouse CACG MS70 – Martha Washington

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

To browse through more rare pieces, beyond Washington coin specimens, click here.

Where to buy rare George Washington coins

The coins and medals featuring George Washington represent more than just currency. They are tangible pieces of American history, from historic silver issues to modern commemorative treasures. Each specimen tells its own unique story of our nation’s first president and his lasting impact on America.

Blanchard specializes in helping collectors acquire these historical pieces, and its expert team is always available to answer questions about George Washington rare coin specimens or assist in building your presidential collection. We invite you to explore these remarkable pieces of American heritage with us.

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