While the Bicentennial Quarter has captured the hearts of collectors, it’s just one of many valuable quarters with unique histories and exceptional worth. For numismatists and casual collectors alike, quarters minted under special circumstances or with rare errors can hold values far beyond their 25-cent face value. Here are nine rare quarters that could bring you a surprising windfall if you’re lucky enough to find one in excellent condition.
1932-D Washington Quarter
The 1932-D Washington Quarter is a top-tier collectible, thanks to its low mintage of just 436,800. As the first year of the Washington Quarter series, this coin has historical significance and rarity, making it highly valuable among collectors.
A 1932-D Washington Quarter in pristine, uncirculated condition can fetch prices over $700,000. Its scarcity and age give it a place of honor in the world of collectible U.S. coins.
1964-D Washington Quarter (Error)
While millions of 1964-D quarters were minted, a select few from this batch possess unique errors, making them particularly valuable. These quarters are from a batch struck with significant minting flaws, such as doubled images or other irregularities, creating strong demand among error coin collectors.
If you happen to have one of these rare error quarters, its value could rise substantially. While regular 1964-D quarters are common, those with specific minting errors could easily reach thousands of dollars.
1950-D Washington Quarter
The 1950-D Washington Quarter is another rare beauty due to its low mintage numbers. With fewer than 250,000 produced, this quarter remains highly sought after by collectors. Though it doesn’t reach the extreme values of the 1932-D or -S, its scarcity adds significantly to its value.
Collectors prize the 1950-D quarter, particularly in excellent condition, for its rarity. Depending on condition, it can reach into the hundreds or thousands, and for those who cherish low-mintage coins, this quarter is a must-have.
1932-S Washington Quarter
Like the 1932-D, the 1932-S Washington Quarter is one of the most valuable in the Washington series, with a mintage of only 408,000. The “S” mint mark signifies that it was struck in San Francisco, and coins from this year are hard to come by in high grade.
A 1932-S in mint condition can also surpass $700,000, making it an ideal find for collectors. Its limited production and historical significance contribute to its high value and desirability.
1996-W Washington Quarter
The 1996-W Washington Quarter stands out for its unique West Point mint mark, which is uncommon for quarters. Minted in West Point to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the Washington Quarter, this version is highly collectible, especially in silver.
The 1996-W in good condition can command hundreds or even thousands of dollars, with the silver version being particularly valuable. Collectors seek it for its rarity and the distinction of bearing the “W” mint mark.
1965 Washington Quarter (Special Minting Variations)
The 1965 Washington Quarter marked the transition from silver to a copper-nickel blend, and certain 1965 quarters were mistakenly struck on 90% silver planchets. These silver planchet errors are extremely rare and highly valuable, as they shouldn’t exist under normal circumstances.
A 1965 silver planchet error quarter can be worth thousands. With the right testing and certification, a 1965 quarter could turn out to be a significant find for collectors.
1943-S Washington Quarter
Produced during World War II, the 1943-S Washington Quarter had a low mintage, making it a collectible coin in good condition. These quarters can be harder to find in high grades, adding to their appeal for collectors interested in wartime memorabilia.
Depending on condition, a 1943-S quarter could be worth several hundred to thousands of dollars. It’s a great piece for collectors interested in both rarity and the historical context of WWII.
1983 Washington Quarter (Error)
The 1983 Washington Quarter is notable not for its mintage but for errors. Post-minting errors on 1983 quarters, such as doubling or other printing anomalies, have elevated their value. While not an old coin, the 1983 quarter’s errors make it particularly desirable among error collectors.
A well-preserved error coin from 1983 can be worth several hundred to thousands of dollars, turning a common quarter into a valuable find.
1937-D Washington Quarter
The 1937-D Washington Quarter is one of the most sought-after quarters due to its extreme rarity. While its mintage wasn’t the lowest, high-grade specimens are exceptionally scarce. In near-perfect condition, these quarters can sell for up to $800,000 or more, attracting top-level collectors.
Collectors prize the 1937-D for its scarcity and its historical significance within the Washington series, making it a top find for numismatists.
| Coin | Year | Unique Feature | Value (Up to) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1932-D Washington Quarter | 1932 | Low mintage; first in series | $700,000+ |
| 1964-D Washington Quarter | 1964 | Error batch | Thousands |
| 1950-D Washington Quarter | 1950 | Low mintage | Hundreds-Thousands |
| 1932-S Washington Quarter | 1932 | Rare, low mintage | $700,000+ |
| 1996-W Washington Quarter | 1996 | West Point mint mark | Hundreds-Thousands |
| 1965 Washington Quarter | 1965 | Silver planchet error | Thousands |
| 1943-S Washington Quarter | 1943 | WWII-era low mintage | Hundreds-Thousands |
| 1983 Washington Quarter | 1983 | Post-mint error | Hundreds-Thousands |
| 1937-D Washington Quarter | 1937 | High value in top condition | $800,000+ |
These remarkable quarters showcase the fascinating world of numismatics, where even small coins can hold immense historical and financial value. Whether due to low mintages, minting errors, or unique features, each of these quarters offers collectors something extraordinary. Keep an eye on your pocket change—you never know when you might come across one of these gems.
FAQs
Why is the 1932-D Washington Quarter valuable?
Its low mintage and age make it worth over $700,000 in top condition.
What’s special about the 1964-D Washington Quarter?
Certain 1964-D quarters contain valuable minting errors.
Why is the 1965 Washington Quarter unique?
Some 1965 quarters were mistakenly struck on silver planchets, raising their value.
How much is a 1996-W Washington Quarter worth?
A West Point mint mark version can command hundreds or more.
Why is the 1937-D Washington Quarter valuable?
Its rarity in near-perfect condition boosts its value past $800,000.
