9 Rare Washington Quarters Worth Up to $50,700: The Washington Quarter has been a staple of American coinage since 1932. Originally designed to honor the nation’s first president, George Washington, this coin quickly became one of the most recognized pieces of circulating currency in the United States. While most quarters are worth only their face value, certain rare editions have become highly prized among collectors. Some of these coins have sold for tens of thousands of dollars, with the most valuable examples reaching prices as high as $50,700. Understanding which quarters are rare and how to identify them can help collectors and enthusiasts uncover hidden treasures in their pocket change or family coin collections.
Why Some Washington Quarters Are Valuable
Not every Washington Quarter carries significant value. The rare ones stand out due to a combination of factors. Low mintage years, minting errors, and coins struck in silver before 1965 are among the most important reasons. Condition also plays a major role. Coins graded at Mint State levels, especially MS65 or higher, can command extraordinary prices. Collectors look for coins with sharp details, minimal wear, and strong luster. These qualities, combined with rarity, make certain Washington Quarters highly desirable.
1932-D Washington Quarter
The 1932-D Washington Quarter is one of the most famous rarities in the series. With a mintage of only 436,800, it is among the lowest produced quarters in history. Collectors prize this coin for its scarcity and historical significance as part of the first year of issue. In high grades, it can sell for thousands of dollars, making it a cornerstone of any serious Washington Quarter collection.
1932-S Washington Quarter
Alongside the Denver issue, the 1932-S Washington Quarter is another key rarity. Its mintage was just 408,000, slightly lower than the 1932-D. Because it was struck in San Francisco, it carries the “S” mint mark. Well-preserved examples are highly sought after, and prices can soar depending on condition. Together, the 1932-D and 1932-S represent the most important starting points for collectors of this series.
1937 Doubled Die Obverse Quarter
Errors often create some of the most valuable coins, and the 1937 Doubled Die Obverse is a prime example. On this coin, the doubling is visible in the inscriptions, particularly in the word “LIBERTY.” Such errors occurred during the minting process when dies were improperly prepared. Collectors love these varieties because they are unique and visually striking. Depending on grade, the 1937 Doubled Die Obverse can fetch impressive sums.
1943-S Washington Quarter
The 1943-S Washington Quarter is notable for its wartime production and relatively low mintage compared to other years. Struck in San Francisco, this coin is composed of 90 percent silver, adding intrinsic value. Collectors often seek it in high grades, where prices can rise significantly. Its historical context during World War II also adds to its appeal.
1950-D/S Overmintmark Quarter
The 1950-D/S Washington Quarter is a fascinating variety created when a Denver mint mark was stamped over a San Francisco mint mark. This error is known as an overmintmark and is highly collectible. The coin’s rarity and unusual appearance make it a standout piece. Collectors are willing to pay substantial amounts for well-preserved examples, especially those with clear overmintmark details.
1955 Doubled Die Obverse Quarter
The 1955 Doubled Die Obverse is another error coin that has captured the attention of collectors. Doubling is visible in the inscriptions, similar to the 1937 variety. These coins are rare and command high prices, particularly in Mint State condition. Error coins like this highlight the unpredictability of minting and the opportunities they create for collectors.
1964-D Washington Quarter
The 1964-D Washington Quarter is significant because it was among the last quarters struck in 90 percent silver before the transition to clad coinage in 1965. While millions were produced, certain high-grade examples and varieties can be worth far more than face value. Collectors often seek these coins as part of the broader silver quarter series, and pristine examples can bring strong premiums.
1970-S Proof Quarter Struck on a 1941 Canadian Quarter
One of the most unusual and valuable Washington Quarters is the 1970-S Proof Quarter struck on a 1941 Canadian Quarter. This minting error occurred when a foreign coin was mistakenly used as a planchet. Such pieces are extremely rare and can sell for tens of thousands of dollars. Their uniqueness makes them legendary among collectors, and they represent the pinnacle of minting oddities.
1976 Bicentennial Quarter With Minting Errors
The 1976 Bicentennial Quarter, featuring a special reverse design to celebrate America’s 200th anniversary, is common in circulation. However, certain error varieties, such as doubled dies or coins struck on the wrong planchet, are rare and valuable. Collectors prize these unusual versions, and prices can vary widely depending on the specific error and condition.
How to Identify Rare Washington Quarters
Identifying rare Washington Quarters requires careful attention to detail. Collectors should look for mint marks, doubling in inscriptions, and unusual features that indicate errors. Consulting coin grading guides and using magnification tools can help spot these details. Condition is critical, so coins should be examined for wear, scratches, and luster. Professional grading services can provide certification, which often increases a coin’s market value.
The Role of Condition and Grading
Grading is the process of evaluating a coin’s condition and assigning it a numerical score. The scale ranges from Poor (P-1) to Mint State (MS-70). Coins in higher grades are worth significantly more. For example, a rare Washington Quarter in MS65 condition can be worth several times more than the same coin in circulated condition. Collectors often invest in graded coins to ensure authenticity and maximize value.
Conclusion
Washington Quarters are more than everyday pocket change. They represent history, artistry, and the thrill of discovery. From the low-mintage 1932-D and 1932-S issues to extraordinary minting errors like the 1970-S struck on a Canadian coin, these quarters have captivated collectors for decades. With values reaching up to $50,700, they offer both financial and historical rewards. By learning how to identify these rare coins and understanding the factors that make them valuable, collectors can uncover treasures that might otherwise go unnoticed. Whether found in circulation, inherited from family collections, or purchased at auctions, rare Washington Quarters remain a fascinating pursuit for numismatists and enthusiasts alike.
