On a quarter, the letter 'S' signifies that the coin was produced at the San Francisco Mint.
Understanding Mint Marks on U.S. Coins
A mint mark is a small letter or symbol found on a coin that serves to identify the specific U.S. Mint facility where that coin was manufactured. These marks are crucial for collectors and anyone interested in the origin of their currency, as they tell a unique part of the coin's story.
The Significance of the 'S' Mint Mark
The 'S' mint mark indicates that your quarter originated from the United States Mint at San Francisco. This facility, historically known for producing gold and silver coinage, has also played a significant role in striking circulating currency and, more recently, special collector-oriented proof and uncirculated coins.
Common U.S. Mint Marks
Beyond the 'S' for San Francisco, several other letters are used to denote the location of coin production. Here's a quick reference for current U.S. mint marks:
| Mint Mark | Location | Primary Function (Current) |
|---|---|---|
| P | Philadelphia | Circulating coins, some collector coins |
| D | Denver | Circulating coins, some collector coins |
| S | San Francisco | Proof coins, special collector coins |
| W | West Point | Bullion coins, some collector coins |
Note: While the San Francisco Mint (S) primarily produces proof coins and special collector editions today, it has historically minted coins for general circulation.
Why Mint Marks Matter
Mint marks are more than just production codes; they provide valuable insights into a coin's history and can influence its rarity and value, especially for collectors. For instance, a coin with an 'S' mint mark might be more sought after if it was produced in a limited quantity or if it's a specific proof version.
To learn more about the different parts of a coin and their meanings, including mint marks, you can explore resources from the U.S. Mint.
