Washington quarters, first issued in 1932, are a staple of American currency and an iconic collector’s item. While most quarters may not hold much value beyond face value, certain rare Washington quarters have become highly prized in the numismatic world.
Factors like minting errors, low mintage, and specific historical years can make these quarters worth much more than 25 cents. Here are some valuable Washington quarters that collectors seek out and why you should hold on to them if you come across one.
1. 1932-D Washington Quarter
The 1932-D Washington quarter was one of the original quarters produced when the series began, with only around 436,800 minted. This low mintage makes it a valuable find, especially if it’s in good condition. It’s a key date for collectors looking to complete a Washington quarter set.
2. 1932-S Washington Quarter
Like the 1932-D, the 1932-S Washington quarter had a very low mintage of around 408,000, making it rare and highly desirable. Collectors seek out this quarter due to its scarcity and historical value, and well-preserved examples can fetch a significant price at auction.
3. 1943 Double Die Obverse Quarter
The 1943 Double Die Obverse Washington quarter is known for a unique error in which the design elements on the front of the coin appear doubled. This error is rare and valuable, especially for collectors who appreciate minting mistakes. Coins in high-grade condition with this error are worth substantially more than face value.
4. 1950-D/S Washington Quarter
This quarter, minted in Denver, has a unique over-mintmark error, where a “D” is stamped over an “S.” The 1950-D/S is one of the most sought-after Washington quarters among error coins. This type of mintmark mistake is rare and increases the coin’s appeal and value.
5. 1965 Silver Transitional Error Quarter
In 1965, the U.S. Mint transitioned from silver to a copper-nickel alloy for quarters. However, a few quarters were mistakenly struck on 90% silver planchets, resulting in the 1965 Silver Transitional Error quarter. These rare silver quarters from 1965 can fetch high prices due to their unusual composition and rarity.
6. 1976 Bicentennial Quarter with Double Die Error
The 1976 Bicentennial quarter was released to celebrate the 200th anniversary of the United States and features a unique design. Some quarters from this year have a double die error, making them valuable to collectors. High-grade examples of this error coin can be quite valuable, especially due to their historical significance.
7. 1983-P Washington Quarter
While the 1983-P Washington quarter doesn’t have an error or particularly low mintage, it’s still valuable due to its scarcity in higher grades. Many quarters from this year were heavily circulated, making uncirculated versions rare and worth more than face value. Well-preserved examples from 1983 are in high demand among collectors.
| Year | Mint Mark | Key Feature | Rarity Level | Estimated Value Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1932 | D | Low mintage | Very High | $100+ |
| 1932 | S | Low mintage | Very High | $120+ |
| 1943 | – | Double die obverse | High | $400+ |
| 1950 | D/S | Over-mintmark error | High | $200+ |
| 1965 | – | Silver transitional error | Very Rare | $7,000+ |
| 1976 | – | Bicentennial double die | High | $300+ |
| 1983 | P | Uncirculated condition | Moderate | $30+ |
Washington quarters hold a special place in U.S. coin collecting, and the rare ones listed here are just a few examples of coins that have surpassed their original 25-cent value.
These quarters can command significant prices in the collectors’ market, making them valuable assets for those lucky enough to come across them. If you find one of these quarters, it may be worth holding onto or consulting a coin expert for an appraisal.
FAQs
Why are some Washington quarters so valuable?
Certain Washington quarters are valuable due to factors like low mintage, minting errors, or historical significance, which make them rare and desirable to collectors.
How can I identify a double die error on a quarter?
A double die error often shows noticeable doubling in the design elements, such as letters or numbers, which appears slightly off or shadowed.
What is a silver transitional error quarter?
A silver transitional error quarter is a coin mistakenly struck on a silver planchet after the U.S. Mint transitioned to a copper-nickel alloy, as seen in the 1965 quarter.
How do I know if my Washington quarter is valuable?
Check for rare years, mintmarks, errors, and unique features. Consulting a coin appraisal expert can help you assess your quarter’s value.
Where can I sell a valuable Washington quarter?
You can sell valuable Washington quarters at coin auctions, through coin dealers, or on online marketplaces specializing in collectible currency.
