Rare Washington Quarter Dollar Coins: The Washington Quarter Dollar has been a staple of U.S. coinage since its debut in 1932, celebrating the 200th anniversary of George Washington’s birth. While most of these coins are relatively common and circulate daily as a regular form of currency, there are a few rare and valuable Washington Quarters that have caught the attention of collectors and investors alike. In fact, some of these quarters can sell for significantly more than their face value, even fetching hundreds or thousands of dollars at auctions.
If you’re a coin collector or just someone who enjoys searching through pocket change, you might be sitting on a valuable treasure without even realizing it. Certain Washington Quarters, due to minting errors, low production numbers, or historical significance, can be worth far more than their initial value. Here are some of the rarest Washington Quarters that are worth big money, and why they might be hiding in your collection or even in your spare change.
1. 1932-D Washington Quarter
The 1932-D Washington Quarter is arguably one of the most famous and valuable coins in the Washington Quarter series. It was the first year of issue for the coin and is especially valuable because it was minted in relatively small numbers. The Denver Mint produced fewer than 436,800 of these quarters, making it one of the scarcest coins in the series.
The coin’s scarcity, combined with the fact that it is a first-year issue, has made it a sought-after piece for collectors. Even in less-than-perfect condition, the 1932-D Washington Quarter can sell for several hundred dollars. In higher grades, especially those graded by professional services such as the Numismatic Guaranty Corporation (NGC) or the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS), the coin can fetch upwards of $10,000 or more, making it one of the most valuable of the Washington Quarters.
2. 1932-S Washington Quarter
Another rare and valuable coin from the first year of the Washington Quarter series is the 1932-S Washington Quarter. Minted at the San Francisco Mint, this coin also has a very limited mintage, with only about 408,000 produced. This low mintage, coupled with the coin’s historical significance, has made the 1932-S a favorite among collectors.
Like the 1932-D, the 1932-S is highly sought after, and in poor condition, it could still sell for several hundred dollars. However, in high-grade specimens, this coin can fetch several thousand dollars at auction. The 1932-S Washington Quarter is a key date in the series, and for collectors looking to complete their Washington Quarter sets, it is a must-have.
3. 1950-D Washington Quarter
While the 1932 issues are well-known for their scarcity, the 1950-D Washington Quarter is another highly valuable coin, especially in higher grades. Although the mintage for the 1950-D was relatively high at 2.6 million coins, this quarter is rare because it was never widely circulated, and many of the coins produced were quickly hoarded or set aside by collectors at the time.
In lower grades, a 1950-D Washington Quarter may only be worth a few dollars above its face value. However, in high-grade specimens or those with a strong strike, this coin can be worth hundreds, or even thousands, depending on the condition. The 1950-D is one of those coins that’s often overlooked by casual collectors, but its rarity in higher grades makes it highly sought after by serious enthusiasts.
4. 1964 Proof Washington Quarter
In 1964, the U.S. Mint produced proof versions of the Washington Quarter as part of its annual proof coin sets. These coins are highly polished and were specially made for collectors, meaning they were never intended for circulation. The 1964 Proof Washington Quarter, in particular, stands out due to its low mintage and exceptional quality.
Although 1964 is the last year that Washington Quarters were made from 90% silver, the 1964 Proof version has earned special recognition among collectors because of its stunning appearance. These coins were struck with a mirror-like finish, making them ideal for display or as a part of a coin collection. A 1964 Proof Washington Quarter in pristine condition can be worth hundreds of dollars, and in higher grades or with certification from professional grading services, it can sell for much more.
5. 1976 Bicentennial Quarter
In 1976, the United States celebrated its 200th anniversary of independence, and the U.S. Mint issued a special bicentennial series of coins, including the Washington Quarter. These coins are particularly notable because they feature a unique reverse design, with a drummer boy and the year 1776-1976, to mark the nation’s bicentennial. Although the 1976 Bicentennial Quarter was produced in large numbers, it remains a popular coin among collectors due to its historical significance.
What makes the 1976 Bicentennial Quarter worth more than face value is its unique design and the fact that it was minted in both copper-nickel and silver versions. The silver version, struck as part of the 1976 proof coin set, is particularly sought after by collectors. Depending on its condition, a 1976 Bicentennial Quarter in silver can be worth anywhere from $5 to $50, with high-grade specimens commanding more. If you come across one of these quarters, especially in a mint condition proof set, it could be a valuable find.
Why Are These Washington Quarters So Valuable?
The value of certain Washington Quarters can be attributed to several key factors. First and foremost, their rarity plays a huge role in their worth. Coins that were produced in smaller numbers or that were not widely circulated tend to have a higher value among collectors. For example, the 1932-D and 1932-S Washington Quarters were minted in such low numbers that finding one in good condition is a rarity in itself.
The condition of a coin is another important factor in its value. Coins that are well-preserved, with little wear and tear, will command higher prices than those that are heavily circulated. Coins that are graded as “mint state” or that have been professionally certified by coin grading services like NGC or PCGS are typically the ones that fetch the highest prices.
Finally, coins with historical significance or unique features, such as the 1976 Bicentennial Quarter, tend to draw more attention from collectors. These coins are not just valuable because of their metal content or rarity but also because they represent important moments in U.S. history, making them highly collectible.
How to Spot Valuable Washington Quarters
If you’re looking to find valuable Washington Quarters, there are a few tips to keep in mind. First, focus on key dates, such as 1932-D, 1932-S, and 1950-D, as these are known to be some of the most valuable in the series. Additionally, look for coins in high-grade condition, as these are more likely to fetch a higher price. If you come across any 1964 Proof Washington Quarters, these are also highly desirable among collectors.
Another important step is to inspect the mintmark on the coin, which can be found on the reverse side. A mintmark tells you where the coin was produced and can help you identify rare varieties that were made at different U.S. Mint facilities. Pay attention to coins that show minimal wear, as these will be worth more.
Finally, when in doubt, it’s always a good idea to consult with a professional coin dealer or numismatist who can help you evaluate the value of your coins.
Conclusion
Washington Quarters may seem like ordinary coins, but some rare versions are worth far more than their face value. Whether it’s the low-mintage 1932-D or 1932-S coins, the historically significant 1976 Bicentennial Quarter, or the stunning proof coins from 1964, there are plenty of Washington Quarters that can sell for big money. As a collector or casual enthusiast, it’s worth taking the time to look through your collection or check your spare change for these valuable finds. With the right knowledge and a bit of luck, you might just discover a rare Washington Quarter that could be worth far more than you ever expected.