25 Most Valuable Washington Quarters: Washington quarters have been part of American coinage since 1932, originally minted to honor the two hundredth anniversary of George Washington’s birth. What began as a commemorative design soon became a standard issue coin that would remain in circulation for generations. Though many Washington quarters hold only face value, certain rare varieties and limited mintages have become incredibly valuable. Collectors around the world actively search for these special pieces, and a few of them have sold for life changing amounts. Below is a detailed look at twenty five of the most valuable Washington quarters that could turn an ordinary coin collection into a remarkable treasure.
1932 D Washington Quarter
The 1932 D quarter is one of the most sought after coins in the entire series. With a low mintage and high demand from collectors, this coin has reached impressive values. High grade examples command huge prices, and even mid grade pieces hold significant worth. The rarity lies in the number of coins produced and the fact that many were lost to circulation wear.
1932 S Washington Quarter
Similar to the Denver issue, the 1932 S quarter was minted in limited quantities. Its scarcity makes it extremely desirable. Although it may look ordinary at first glance, the San Francisco mint mark gives it tremendous value. Well preserved pieces often sell for thousands, especially those that have never been cleaned or polished.
1937 Doubled Die Obverse
The doubled die obverse from 1937 is a standout error coin. The doubling is most visible in the inscriptions, giving the quarter a unique appearance. Collectors who favor error coins cherish this variety due to its distinct look and limited availability. The value climbs steeply with condition and clarity of the doubling.
1942 D Over Horizontal D
The 1942 D over D variety is the result of a minting mistake where the letter D was punched twice in different positions. It creates a visible overlapping effect beneath the mint mark. Error collectors find this coin especially appealing. In high grades, this quarter is considered one of the most valuable mid century pieces.
1943 Doubled Die Obverse
Another impressive doubled die quarter surfaced in 1943. The doubled text is subtle but noticeable with careful inspection. Given the wartime production conditions and the chance of errors, this coin stands as a reminder of the mint’s challenges during that period. Well struck examples hold high auction interest.
1950 D Over S Variety
The 1950 D over S mint mark variety is an unusual error created when a Denver mint mark was punched over a San Francisco mint mark. This produced a layered effect that collectors find fascinating. Its availability is limited, making it one of the most desirable pieces from the mid century era.
1950 S Over D Variety
The reverse of the previous error also exists. The 1950 S over D quarter displays the opposite combination. Although similar in origin, this variety is even more scarce. Because of this rarity, high grade pieces often sell far above standard price guides.
1956 D Over D
Another example of an overpunched mint mark appears in 1956. The variety shows two distinct impressions of the letter D. Collectors regard this quarter as an important part of any Washington error collection. Prices rise significantly when the doubling is clear and the surface remains well preserved.
1964 SMS Quarter
Perhaps one of the most mysterious Washington quarters ever is the 1964 SMS. These were not regular circulation coins and differ from the proof sets of the time. With smooth surfaces and unusual textures, the 1964 SMS quarter is extremely rare. Only a handful are confirmed to exist, making them some of the most valuable coins in the series.
1964 Doubled Die Reverse
The 1964 doubled die reverse quarter shows clear doubling in the lettering on the back. This variety is more uncommon than many error coins from the decade. Serious collectors prize sharp examples, and its value increases with each level of grade improvement.
1965 Transitional Error
When the United States moved away from silver coinage in 1965, a few silver planchets were accidentally used. These transitional error quarters contain ninety percent silver rather than the new clad composition. Identifying one requires careful weight measurement. Because they represent an important turning point in coinage history, these quarters can sell for extremely high amounts.
1966 SMS Quarter
The 1966 special mint set quarter is not as rare as the 1964 version but still holds significant value. These coins have a distinct finish and are often found in higher grades. Collectors who specialize in special mint set coins consider this one essential.
1967 SMS Quarter
Continuing the special mint set line, the 1967 quarter remains desirable due to its superior strike and finish. Although not as scarce as older varieties, pristine examples still command strong interest. The eye appeal of these coins sets them apart from regular circulation strikes.
1970 S Over Struck Quarter
One of the most astonishing and valuable Washington quarters ever discovered is a 1970 S coin struck over a 1941 Canadian quarter. This incredibly rare mint error shocked the collecting community when revealed. Its value is extraordinarily high because of the unique minting accident and the scarcity of such dramatic errors.
1971 Doubled Die Obverse
The doubled die obverse in 1971 is subtle but present. Collectors appreciate the rarity, and although not as dramatic as earlier doubled dies, this variety still attracts strong bidding at auctions when found in high grade.
1972 Doubled Die Obverse
Another doubled die variety appears in 1972. The doubling is most visible in the lettering, and clean examples are desirable. Coins with minimal wear can be worth far more than typical coins from the decade.
1974 D Over S
While not as commonly discussed as earlier mint mark varieties, the 1974 D over S quarter remains an interesting find. The layered mint mark makes it a valuable error coin. Collectors specializing in overpunched varieties often pursue this piece with enthusiasm.
1976 Bicentennial Silver Quarter
The bicentennial quarter is widely collected, but the silver version minted in limited quantities is notably more valuable. Collectors love this special edition for its historical significance and its silver composition. High grade silver bicentennial quarters can sell for far more than their face value.
1982 No P Mint Mark Quarter
In 1982, Philadelphia mistakenly released quarters without a mint mark. This omission created one of the most recognizable Washington quarter errors. Well struck examples remain highly collectible, especially those with strong surfaces and sharp details.
1983 Doubled Die Reverse
The 1983 doubled die reverse stands out for its visible doubling in the lettering and eagle features. Because 1983 quarters were heavily circulated, finding a high grade example is difficult. Uncirculated pieces reach impressive prices on the market.
1992 Close AM Quarter
The 1992 close AM variety refers to the tight spacing between the letters A and M on the reverse. This subtle error is rare and highly valued by specialists. Collectors who focus on minor design changes frequently seek this quarter.
1995 Doubled Die Obverse
The 1995 doubled die obverse is one of the more popular modern errors. Although not as extreme as older doubled dies, it remains noteworthy for its doubling in the inscriptions. Strong examples often sell for more than expected.
1999 W State Quarter
The 1999 W state quarters are extremely scarce special editions. They were produced with unique minting characteristics that set them apart from standard state quarter issues. Their low distribution makes them some of the most valuable modern Washington quarters.
2004 Wisconsin Extra Leaf Quarter
The Wisconsin extra leaf quarter is one of the most famous state quarter errors. Some coins show an additional leaf on the corn stalk, either high or low. These varieties appeared in small numbers and quickly became icons in modern coin collecting. Their value continues to remain strong.