Top 25 Most Valuable Washington Quarters of 2026:The Washington quarter was first introduced in 1932 to commemorate the 200th anniversary of George Washington’s birth. Designed by John Flanagan, the coin features Washington’s portrait on the obverse and an eagle on the reverse. Over the decades, the quarter has become one of the most widely circulated coins in the United States. While millions of quarters have been minted, certain issues stand out for their rarity, historical significance, and collector demand. In 2026, these coins continue to capture the imagination of numismatists and investors alike.
1932-D Washington Quarter
The 1932-D is one of the most famous key dates in the Washington quarter series. With a low mintage of just over 436,000, it is highly sought after by collectors. High-grade examples can command thousands of dollars, making it a cornerstone of any serious collection.
1932-S Washington Quarter
Similar to the Denver issue, the 1932-S quarter is another key date with a low mintage of around 408,000. Its scarcity and historical significance make it one of the most valuable quarters in the series.
1937 Doubled Die Obverse Quarter
The 1937 doubled die obverse quarter is a striking error coin that shows doubling on Washington’s portrait. Error coins like this are rare and highly prized, often selling for impressive sums at auction.
1942-D Washington Quarter
The 1942-D quarter is notable for its relatively low mintage and wartime context. Collectors value it for its scarcity and connection to World War II history.
1950-D/S Overmintmark Quarter
The 1950-D/S quarter is a fascinating variety where a Denver mintmark was struck over a San Francisco mintmark. This error makes the coin unique and highly collectible.
1955 Doubled Die Obverse Quarter
The 1955 doubled die obverse quarter is another famous error coin. The doubling is visible on the lettering, and collectors prize it for its rarity and dramatic appearance.
1964-D Washington Quarter
The 1964-D quarter is significant because it was one of the last quarters struck in 90 percent silver before the transition to clad coinage in 1965. High-grade examples remain valuable due to their silver content and historical importance.
1965 Transitional Error Quarter
Some 1965 quarters were mistakenly struck on silver planchets instead of clad planchets. These transitional error coins are extremely rare and can fetch thousands of dollars.
1966 SMS Quarter
The 1966 Special Mint Set quarter is notable for its unique finish and limited production. Collectors value it for its rarity and distinctive appearance.
1970-S Proof Quarter Struck on Silver Planchet
A small number of 1970-S proof quarters were struck on silver planchets intended for other coins. These rare errors are highly prized by collectors.
1971-S Proof Quarter
The 1971-S proof quarter is valued for its limited mintage and collector appeal. High-grade examples remain in demand.
1974 Doubled Die Obverse Quarter
The 1974 doubled die obverse quarter is another error coin that has captured collector interest. The doubling is visible on the lettering and adds significant value.
1976 Bicentennial Quarter in Silver
The 1976 Bicentennial quarter, featuring a special reverse design with a colonial drummer, was struck in both clad and silver versions. The silver issues are especially valuable, particularly in high grades.
1982 No Mintmark Quarter
The 1982 no mintmark quarter is a famous modern rarity. Struck in Philadelphia without the usual “P” mintmark, it is highly sought after by collectors.
1983 Doubled Die Reverse Quarter
The 1983 doubled die reverse quarter shows dramatic doubling on the reverse lettering. Error coins from this era are rare and valuable.
1995 Doubled Die Obverse Quarter
The 1995 doubled die obverse quarter is another modern error that has gained attention. Collectors prize it for its rarity and distinctive doubling.
1996-S Silver Proof Quarter
The 1996-S silver proof quarter is valued for its limited mintage and silver content. High-grade examples remain popular among collectors.
1999-P Delaware Spitting Horse Quarter
The 1999-P Delaware quarter features a famous error known as the “spitting horse,” caused by a die crack. This variety is highly collectible and continues to attract attention in 2026.
2000-P South Carolina Quarter Error
The 2000-P South Carolina quarter has a notable error variety that makes it valuable. Collectors seek out these coins for their uniqueness.
2004-D Wisconsin Extra Leaf Quarter
The 2004-D Wisconsin quarter is famous for its extra leaf variety, with either a high or low leaf appearing on the corn stalk. These coins are highly prized and can command significant prices.
2005 Minnesota Doubled Die Quarter
The 2005 Minnesota quarter features a doubled die variety with extra trees visible on the reverse. This error has become a modern favorite among collectors.
2009-D District of Columbia Quarter Error
The 2009-D District of Columbia quarter has a notable error variety that adds to its value. Collectors prize it for its rarity and connection to the statehood series.
2010 Hot Springs Quarter Error
The 2010 Hot Springs quarter features an error variety that makes it valuable. Modern errors like this are rare and highly collectible.
2019-W Washington Quarter
The 2019-W quarter was struck at the West Point Mint and released into circulation in limited numbers. Its unique mintmark and scarcity make it one of the most valuable modern quarters.
2021 Crossing the Delaware Quarter Error
The 2021 Crossing the Delaware quarter has error varieties that add to its value. Collectors continue to seek these coins in 2026.
Conclusion
The Washington quarter series offers a rich history filled with rare dates, minting errors, and special issues. From the early key dates of 1932 to modern rarities like the 2019-W and 2004-D Wisconsin extra leaf quarter, these coins represent the pinnacle of numismatic value. Collectors in 2026 continue to treasure these quarters not only for their monetary worth but also for the stories they tell about American history and coinage. Whether you are a seasoned numismatist or a newcomer to the hobby, the hunt for valuable Washington quarters remains one of the most exciting journeys in coin collecting.
Would you like me to create a similar long-form guide on the most valuable Jefferson nickels or Lincoln cents to expand this rare coin series?