The 2019 S War in the Pacific Quarter is worth anywhere from $1 in circulated condition to over $35 for high-grade silver proof versions. Whether you found one in your change or in a collection, its value depends heavily on the specific finish and the metal content of the coin.

Understanding the Significance of the 2019 S War in the Pacific Quarter

Finding a 2019 War in the Pacific quarter in your pocket change can be an exciting moment for any casual collector. This coin was released as part of the America the Beautiful Quarters Program, honoring the War in the Pacific National Historical Park in Guam. While millions of these quarters were minted, the presence of the “S” mint mark makes this particular coin stand out from the common Philadelphia or Denver issues. If you are unsure what you have in your hand, using a top coin identifier app can help you distinguish between a standard business strike and a collectible proof.

The design on the reverse is quite striking, featuring American forces landing at Asan Bay during the liberation of Guam in 1944. Because these “S” mint mark coins were generally produced for collectors rather than for general circulation, they often carry a premium. Most people who find these coins today discover them in “Uncirculated” sets or proof sets, which keeps their value higher than the face value of twenty-five cents. To get a better sense of how this specific year compares to others in the series, you can check the current 2019 quarter market trends to see how prices have fluctuated recently.

Using tools like the CoinHix app can simplify the process of evaluating your find. By taking a clear photo, you can determine if your “S” quarter is a copper-nickel clad version or the more valuable silver proof edition. These distinctions are vital because a silver coin is inherently worth more due to its precious metal content, regardless of the numismatic demand.

Distinguishing Between Clad and Silver Proof Versions

The San Francisco Mint produced two distinct types of “S” quarters in 2019. The first is the Copper-Nickel Clad Proof. These were sold in standard proof sets and feature a brilliant, mirror-like finish with frosted details. While beautiful, they do not contain any silver. They are common enough that their value usually stays in the $3 to $7 range for a pristine specimen.

The second, more desirable version is the 99.9% Silver Proof. Prior to 2019, silver quarters were made of 90% silver, but starting this year, the Mint increased the purity. These coins are heavier and have a distinct edge without the copper “stripe” visible on clad coins. If you are looking for specific 2019 S War in the Pacific silver value data, you will find that these coins trade at a significant premium over their face value.

Many Americans aren’t aware that “S” mint quarters were also produced in “Business Strike” finishes for San Francisco Mint sets. These were not intended for circulation but look like regular quarters. They are often referred to as “S-Mint Uncirculated” coins. While not as shiny as proofs, they are still scarce since they weren’t released into the wild by the Federal Reserve.

Current Market Value and Pricing Guide for 2019 S Quarters

The value of your 2019 S War in the Pacific quarter is tied directly to its “Grade” or condition. A coin that has been scratched or handled will always be worth less than one sealed in its original government packaging. Collectors use a scale from 1 to 70 to grade coins, and for 2019 quarters, only those graded 67 or higher tend to see significant price spikes at auctions.

For the everyday collector, the CoinHix app provides a quick way to see what similar coins are selling for on major marketplaces. It removes the guesswork out of “is this worth a dollar or fifty dollars?” Generally, unless the coin is part of a certified silver set, you should expect a modest but respectable return on your find.

Coin Type & Grade	Estimated Market Value
2019-S Clad Proof (PR65)	$4.00 – $6.00
2019-S Clad Proof (PR70 Deep Cameo)	$15.00 – $25.00
2019-S Silver Proof (PR65)	$12.00 – $18.00
2019-S Silver Proof (PR70 Deep Cameo)	$35.00 – $55.00
2019-S Business Strike (MS65)	$2.00 – $5.00

Identifying Key Features and the “S” Mint Mark

To find out if your quarter is the special “S” edition, look at the obverse (the side with George Washington). To the right of Washington’s ponytail, you will see a small letter. If it is an “S,” the coin was minted in San Francisco. This is different from the common “P” (Philadelphia) or “D” (Denver) marks.

You should also look for the West Point “W” mint mark. While this article focuses on the “S” mint, 2019 was the first year the Mint released “W” quarters directly into circulation as part of the “Great American Coin Hunt.” If you find a War in the Pacific quarter with a “W” mark, it is actually rarer and more valuable to many collectors than the “S” clad proof.

When inspecting your coin, look for deep contrast between the design and the background. On a proof coin, the “field” (the flat background) should look like a dark mirror, while the soldiers landing on the beach should look white or frosted. If your coin looks this way, keep it in a protective sleeve to maintain its value. Fingerprints can actually damage the delicate surface of a proof coin over time.

How to Sell or Appraise Your 2019 S Guam Quarter

If you believe you have a high-grade 2019 S War in the Pacific quarter, the next step is deciding whether to keep it or sell it. For most circulated coins, local coin shops might only offer a small premium. However, if your coin is a silver proof in perfect condition, it is a different story.

Before visiting a dealer, download the CoinHix app to get a baseline price. This prevents you from underselling a potentially rare variety. If the coin is in a plastic slab from a grading service like PCGS or NGC, it is much easier to sell online via eBay or specialized numismatic forums.

Selling as a set is often more lucrative than selling an individual quarter. If you have the full 2019 proof set including the War in the Pacific, Lowell, American Memorial, San Antonio Missions, and Frank Church River of No Return quarters, the total value is significantly higher. Collectors often hunt for specific themes, and the “War in the Pacific” design is a favorite among military history enthusiasts.

FAQ about 2019 S War in the Pacific Quarters

Q: Is every 2019 quarter with an “S” mint mark made of silver?

A: No. The San Francisco Mint produced both copper-nickel clad proof quarters and 99.9% silver proof quarters. You can check the edge of the coin; if you see a copper stripe, it is clad. If the edge is solid silver/white, it is likely the silver version.

Q: Why did I find an “S” mint quarter in my pocket change if they weren’t for circulation?

A: Sometimes collectors break open proof sets and spend the coins, or a collection is inherited by someone who doesn’t realize their value and spends them as regular money. These are called “impaired proofs.”

Q: How much silver is in the 2019 S Silver Proof War in the Pacific Quarter?

A: It contains approximately 0.2002 troy ounces of 99.9% fine silver. This gives the coin an intrinsic “melt value” that fluctuates with the spot price of silver.

Q: What is the rarest 2019 War in the Pacific quarter?

A: The “W” mint mark (West Point) is generally considered the most “findable” rarity with only 2 million minted for circulation, though a perfect PR70 Deep Cameo Silver “S” proof is also highly prized.