25 Most Valuable Washington Quarters: Since its introduction in 1932, the Washington quarter has become one of the most recognizable coins in American currency. Originally designed to commemorate the 200th anniversary of George Washington’s birth, the coin quickly became a staple of everyday transactions. Over the decades, however, certain varieties of the Washington quarter have transcended their face value, becoming prized possessions for collectors and, in some cases, worth staggering sums.
The allure of these coins lies in their rarity, condition, and historical significance. For collectors, the thrill of discovering a valuable quarter in circulation or tucked away in a coin jar is unmatched. Some Washington quarters are so rare that they can fetch thousands or even millions of dollars at auction.
Why Washington Quarters Can Be Worth Millions
The value of a Washington quarter is determined by several factors. Rarity is the most obvious. Coins produced in limited numbers or with minting errors are naturally more valuable. Condition also plays a crucial role. Coins that remain in pristine state despite years of circulation are worth far more than worn examples. Historical significance and demand among collectors further elevate value.
Washington quarters are particularly interesting because of the many changes in design, composition, and minting practices over the years. From silver issues to state quarters, the series offers countless opportunities for rare varieties to emerge.
The 1932-D Washington Quarter
One of the most famous and valuable Washington quarters is the 1932-D. With a mintage of only 436,800, it is one of the lowest production runs in the series. Collectors prize this coin for its rarity, and examples in excellent condition can be worth tens of thousands of dollars.
The 1932-S Washington Quarter
Similar to the 1932-D, the 1932-S quarter is highly sought after. With a mintage of just 408,000, it is even rarer. Together, the 1932-D and 1932-S quarters represent the holy grail of Washington quarter collecting.
The 1943-S Doubled Die Obverse Quarter
Minting errors often create valuable coins, and the 1943-S doubled die obverse quarter is a prime example. The doubling on the obverse makes this coin unique, and collectors are willing to pay significant premiums for well-preserved examples.
The 1950-D/S Overmintmark Quarter
This coin features an unusual overmintmark error, where a D was struck over an S. Such errors are rare and highly collectible, making the 1950-D/S quarter a valuable addition to any collection.
The 1964-D Washington Quarter
The 1964-D quarter is notable because it was one of the last quarters struck in 90 percent silver before the transition to clad coinage. While most are common, certain varieties and high-grade examples can be worth substantial amounts.
The 1970-S Proof Quarter
Among modern quarters, the 1970-S proof quarter is particularly valuable. Some were mistakenly struck on silver planchets intended for other coins. These rare errors can fetch thousands of dollars at auction.
The 1976 Bicentennial Quarter
Issued to celebrate America’s 200th anniversary, the Bicentennial quarter features a colonial drummer on the reverse. While most are common, silver-clad proof versions and minting errors are highly collectible. Some rare varieties have sold for impressive sums.
The 1982 No Mintmark Quarter
In 1982, some quarters were struck without a mintmark, creating a rare variety. These coins are highly sought after by collectors and can be worth hundreds or more depending on condition.
The 1983 Doubled Die Reverse Quarter
This coin features doubling on the reverse, making it a rare and valuable find. Collectors prize error coins like this for their uniqueness and scarcity.
The 1995 Doubled Die Obverse Quarter
Another error coin, the 1995 doubled die obverse quarter, shows noticeable doubling on the obverse. Such coins are rare and can command significant premiums.
The 1999 Delaware Spitting Horse Quarter
Among state quarters, the Delaware spitting horse variety is famous. A die crack on the reverse makes it appear as though the horse is spitting. This quirky error has become highly collectible.
The 2004 Wisconsin Extra Leaf Quarter
One of the most famous modern error coins, the 2004 Wisconsin quarter features an extra leaf on the corn stalk. Two varieties exist, known as the “extra high leaf” and “extra low leaf.” Both are rare and valuable.
The 2005 Minnesota Doubled Die Quarter
This coin features doubling on the reverse, particularly in the trees. Collectors prize it for its rarity, and examples in good condition can be worth hundreds.
The 2009 District of Columbia Duke Ellington Quarter
Some of these quarters were struck with errors, making them rare and collectible. The design itself, honoring Duke Ellington, adds cultural significance.
The 2010 Hot Springs Quarter With Errors
Part of the America the Beautiful series, the Hot Springs quarter has been found with minting errors that increase its value. Collectors seek out these unusual varieties.
The 2013 Mount Rushmore Quarter With Errors
Another America the Beautiful quarter, the Mount Rushmore issue has error varieties that make it valuable. These coins are prized for their unique features.
The 2015 Homestead Quarter With Doubling
This coin features doubling on the reverse, particularly in the windows of the homestead. Such errors are rare and collectible.
The 2016 Harpers Ferry Quarter With Errors
Error varieties of this coin have been discovered, making them valuable to collectors. The design itself, commemorating Harpers Ferry, adds historical significance.
The 2017 Frederick Douglass Quarter With Errors
This coin honors Frederick Douglass and has been found with minting errors that increase its value. Collectors prize both the design and the rarity.
The 2019 San Antonio Missions Quarter With Errors
Error varieties of this coin have been discovered, making them valuable additions to collections. The design itself is culturally significant.
The 2020 Salt River Bay Quarter With Doubling
This coin features doubling on the reverse, making it a rare and valuable find. Collectors seek out such error coins for their uniqueness.
The 2021 Crossing the Delaware Quarter With Errors
This coin, featuring Washington crossing the Delaware, has error varieties that make it collectible. Its design connects to American history, adding to its appeal.
The 2022 Maya Angelou Quarter With Errors
Part of the American Women Quarters Program, the Maya Angelou quarter has been found with minting errors that increase its value. Its cultural significance makes it especially prized.
The Thrill of Coin Collecting
The idea that valuable quarters can still be found in pocket change is thrilling. It transforms everyday transactions into opportunities for discovery. While the odds of finding a rare coin are slim, stories of people stumbling upon treasures keep the excitement alive. Coin collecting is not only about financial gain but also about connecting with history and culture.
Conclusion
Washington quarters hold stories of history, artistry, and occasional rarity. From the 1932-D and 1932-S issues to modern error coins, certain quarters are worth far more than their face value. The possibility of finding one in pocket change adds excitement to everyday life.
For collectors, these coins represent opportunities to preserve history and build valuable collections. For the public, they are reminders that treasures can be hidden in plain sight. Whether you are saving coins in a jar or examining your change after a purchase, the world of Washington quarters offers endless fascination and the chance of discovering something truly extraordinary.