1981-S Washington Quarter — PCGS PR70DCAM Type 1
A Perfect Proof with an Interesting Variety
This is the 1981-S Proof Washington Quarter, certified by the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) in the flawless PR70 Deep Cameo (DCAM) grade — the highest possible grade a proof coin can achieve, indicating no visible imperfections under 5x magnification.
The 1981-S is notable for having two different varieties: Type 1 (PCGS #96016) and Type 2 (PCGS #96017), distinguished by minor differences in the mint mark punch used at the San Francisco Mint. The Type 2 variety is considered the scarcer of the two in top grades.
The PR70DCAM Designation
The DCAM (Deep Cameo) designation indicates exceptional visual contrast: heavily frosted design elements stand out boldly against deeply mirrored, reflective fields — the hallmark of the finest proof coins. There are 0 coins graded higher than PR70 for this issue, confirming this is the ultimate example attainable.
Specifications
| Attribute | Detail |
|---|---|
| PCGS # | 96016 (Type 1) / 96017 (Type 2) |
| Year | 1981 |
| Mint | San Francisco (S mintmark) |
| Denomination | 25 Cents (Quarter Dollar) |
| Grade | PR70DCAM |
| Designer | John Flanagan |
| Composition | Clad: 75% Copper, 25% Nickel over a pure Copper center |
| Weight | 5.67 grams |
| Diameter | 24.30 millimeters |
| Edge | Reeded |
| Mintage | 4,063,083 |
Type 1 vs. Type 2
The distinction between the two varieties lies in the mint mark:
-
Type 1 (PCGS #96016): Features the earlier style "S" mint mark punch
-
Type 2 (PCGS #96017): Features the later style "S" mint mark punch
This variety difference is of particular interest to Washington Quarter specialists, as the Type 2 is generally considered more desirable in high grades.
Design
Obverse: Features John Flanagan's classic left-facing portrait of George Washington, adapted from Jean-Antoine Houdon's sculpture, with "LIBERTY" at the top periphery, "IN GOD WE TRUST" to the left, and the date centered at the bottom. The "S" mint mark appears to the right of the president's hair ribbon.
Reverse: Depicts a heraldic eagle with wings fully extended, clutching a bundle of arrows and an olive branch, with "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" at the top periphery and "QUARTER DOLLAR" at the bottom.
Collecting Context
The 1981-S is an interesting and accessible PR70 example in the Washington Quarter proof series (1965-1998). While PR69 examples are common, the PR70 represents the finest possible representation of this issue. The existence of two varieties adds an extra dimension for collectors, with the Type 2 generally commanding a higher premium in perfect condition
