Many people overlook the change in their pockets, but some quarters are worth much more than their face value. Over the years, rare and collectible quarters have skyrocketed in price due to minting errors, low production numbers, and historical significance.
If you have a jar of quarters at home, you may want to check if any of these 12 rare coins are hiding among them.
1. 1932-D Washington Quarter
The 1932-D Washington quarter is one of the most sought-after quarters in the U.S. Mint’s history. With only 436,800 coins produced, this quarter is valuable due to its low mintage. In high-grade condition, it can fetch over $15,000 at auction.
2. 1932-S Washington Quarter
Another rare coin from 1932 is the San Francisco-minted quarter. Only 408,000 of these were made, making it even scarcer than the 1932-D. A well-preserved 1932-S can sell for $5,000 to $10,000.
3. 1943 Washington Quarter (Double Die Obverse)
This quarter is famous for a double die minting error, which causes overlapping or blurry images on the obverse (front) of the coin. Depending on condition, it can be worth anywhere from $1,000 to $5,000.
4. 1950-D/S Overmintmark Quarter
This rare quarter features a Denver Mint mark over a San Francisco Mint mark, creating a distinctive and valuable error. A well-preserved example can sell for up to $3,500.
5. 1964-D Washington Quarter (Repunched Mint Mark)
Collectors prize the 1964-D quarter because of its repunched mint mark, a minting error that makes the coin unique. Since 1964 was the last year quarters were made from 90% silver, these are already valuable for their silver content. High-grade examples can reach $2,000.
6. 1970-S Proof Washington Quarter (Struck on a 1941 Canadian Quarter)
One of the most unusual quarters ever discovered, this coin was mistakenly struck on a 1941 Canadian quarter. Due to its rarity and oddity, collectors have paid up to $35,000 for a high-quality specimen.
7. 1983-P Washington Quarter
Most 1983 quarters were heavily circulated, making mint-condition examples rare. Because no official mint sets were released that year, finding an uncirculated 1983-P can bring in $1,500 or more.
8. 1999-P Delaware State Quarter (Spitting Horse Error)
This quarter, part of the State Quarters series, has an error where it appears that the horse on the reverse is “spitting” due to a die crack. While common, pristine examples can sell for $300 to $500.
9. 2004-D Wisconsin Quarter (Extra Leaf High and Low Varieties)
A minting error resulted in some Wisconsin quarters having an extra leaf on the ear of corn. There are two versions—high leaf and low leaf—both of which can fetch $200 to $1,500.
10. 2005-P Minnesota Quarter (Double Die Error)
This quarter from the America the Beautiful series has a double die error, which creates a shadowy second image of a tree. Depending on condition, these can sell for $300 to $1,000.
11. 2009-D District of Columbia Quarter (Doubled Die Error)
This quarter features Duke Ellington, but some have a noticeable double die effect, making them more valuable. Collectors have paid up to $1,000 for high-grade examples.
12. 2020-W “America the Beautiful” Quarters
In 2020, the U.S. Mint released a special batch of quarters with a “W” mint mark from the West Point Mint. These quarters were not released in mint sets but were placed directly into circulation, making them a rare find. Depending on the specific design and condition, they can sell for $500 or more.
How to Check If You Have a Valuable Quarter
If you think you might have one of these rare quarters, follow these steps:
- Check the Date and Mint Mark – Look for key years and mint marks that indicate rarity.
- Examine for Errors – Double die strikes, repunched mint marks, and overstruck coins can significantly increase value.
- Assess Condition – Coins in mint or near-mint condition are worth much more than worn-out ones.
- Consult a Coin Expert – Get your quarter appraised by a professional numismatist or submit it to a grading service like PCGS or NGC.
Conclusion
Your spare change could be worth a small fortune! While most quarters are worth just 25 cents, some rare and error coins can sell for thousands of dollars. If you have a collection of old coins, it may be worth checking for these valuable quarters. For more information on rare coin values and authentication, visit PCGS or NGC.
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