The 2002-S Ohio Silver State Quarter is worth anywhere from $8 in typical proof condition to over $50 in perfect 70-grade specimens. This shiny, commemorative coin is a favorite among collectors because it contains 90% silver, making it significantly more valuable than the copper-nickel quarters you usually find in your pocket change.

Identification and Initial Value of the 2002-S Silver Ohio Quarter

If you have discovered a 2002 quarter featuring the Wright Brothers’ Flyer and an astronaut, you likely have the Ohio state design. However, not all of these are created equal. The most common versions were minted in Philadelphia (P) and Denver (D) for circulation and are made of a copper-nickel sandwich. The “S” mint mark version, produced at the San Francisco Mint, comes in two varieties: a standard clad proof and a prestigious silver proof.

Before cleaning your coin (which we never recommend as it lowers the value), take a close look at the edge. If you see a solid silver stripe instead of a copper-colored ring, you likely have the silver version. To be 100% sure about what you have found, you can use a top coin identifier app to scan the coin and verify its composition instantly. These silver quarters were only sold in special sets and never released directly into circulation, though they occasionally turn up when someone spends a collection by mistake.

As you evaluate your find, remember that the CoinHix app can provide live market tracking for silver bullion prices. Because these coins are 90% silver, their “melt value” provides a price floor that keeps them valuable even if the coin is scratched. Currently, most raw, uncertified 2002-S Silver Ohio quarters sell for between $7 and $12 depending on the spot price of silver.

Understanding the Design and History of the Ohio Quarter

The Ohio State Quarter was the 17th coin released in the 50 State Quarters Program. It was officially issued on March 11, 2002. The design is titled “Birthplace of Aviation Pioneers,” acknowledging Ohio as the home of the Wright Brothers, Orville and Wilbur, as well as John Glenn and Neil Armstrong. The reverse features an early 1905 Flyer, a space-suited astronaut, and an outline of the state.

Because this specific version was struck in San Francisco as a “Proof,” it has a mirror-like finish. The background (fields) is often highly reflective, while the design elements (the astronaut and plane) have a frosted, matte appearance. This contrast is what collectors call “Cameo” or “Deep Cameo.” When looking at the detailed 2002 quarter value chart, you will notice that the silver proof version consistently outperforms the clad versions from the same year.

Using a tool like CoinHix can help you track the historical performance of these proof sets. Often, people find these coins inside a plastic lens as part of a 5-coin silver state quarter set. If the set is broken up, the individual Ohio quarter retains its value due to its silver content and its popularity among aviation enthusiasts.

2002-S Ohio Silver Quarter Price Reference Table

Below is a breakdown of what you can expect to pay or receive for this coin based on its condition. Most of these coins are graded as PR69 or PR70 because they were handled carefully by the mint.

Condition / Grade	Estimated Market Value
Raw / Impaired Proof (Silver)	$7.00 – $9.00
PR67 Deep Cameo (Certified)	$12.00 – $15.00
PR69 Deep Cameo (Certified)	$18.00 – $25.00
PR70 Deep Cameo (Perfect Grade)	$45.00 – $75.00

Determining Value Based on Grading and Condition

In the world of coin collecting, condition is everything. A “Proof” coin is not just a condition, but a manufacturing process. These coins were struck at least twice with specially polished dies to ensure high detail. However, if a 2002-S Ohio Silver Quarter has been touched by bare hands, the oils can cause “milking” or cloudiness over time.

If your coin is in perfect condition with no visible scratches even under a magnifying glass, it might be worth sending to a grading service like PCGS or NGC. A “Perfect 70” grade significantly increases the price. When researching, you might see comparisons to other coins from that year; for instance, the market value for 2002-P Tennessee quarters shows that circulation-strike coins rarely reach the price levels of the silver proof Ohio coins unless they are in exceptionally high Mint State grades.

Always check for “toning.” Some silver quarters develop a rainbow-like oxidation over years. While some collectors find this ugly, others will pay a premium for “monster toning,” which can double or triple the value of an otherwise standard silver proof coin. You can use CoinHix to compare photos of your coin with high-grade examples to see where yours fits on the scale.

What Makes the Silver Version Different From Regular Quarters?

The primary driver of the 2002-S Ohio Silver Quarter’s value is its 0.1808 troy ounces of pure silver. During the State Quarter program, the Mint produced two types of proof sets every year: a standard clad set and a 90% silver set. The silver sets were sold at a higher initial price point and had lower production numbers.

Because the silver version was never intended for circulation, any “S” mint mark silver quarter you find in a vending machine or change jar is considered an “impaired proof.” Even if it is slightly scratched from its time in the wild, it is still worth its weight in silver, which is usually much more than the 25-cent face value.

If you aren’t sure if your coin is silver, try the “ring test” (carefully!). Gently tap the coin; silver has a high-pitched, melodic ring that lingers, whereas copper-nickel quarters have a dull, short thud. However, the most reliable method for a beginner is to check the weight. A silver quarter weighs 6.25 grams, while a standard clad quarter weighs 5.67 grams.

FAQ

Q: How can I tell if my 2002-S Ohio quarter is silver or clad?

A: Check the edge of the coin. If you see a orange/copper stripe, it is a standard clad proof. If the edge is solid silver/white, it is the 90% silver version. Additionally, the silver version weighs 6.25g, while the clad version weighs 5.67g.

Q: Is the 2002-S Ohio Silver Quarter rare?

A: It is not “rare” in the sense that millions were made (specifically 892,229 silver sets), but it is much harder to find than the Philadelphia or Denver versions. It was only available via the US Mint’s special Silver Proof Set.

Q: Should I clean my 2002-S Silver Quarter to make it worth more?

A: No! Never clean a coin. Even using a soft cloth can create microscopic scratches that a professional grader will see. Cleaning a proof coin can reduce its collector value to just its silver melt value.

Q: Where is the mint mark on the Ohio quarter?

A: The mint mark is located on the obverse (the side with George Washington) to the right of his ponytail, just below the “In God We Trust” motto. You are looking for a small “S” for San Francisco.