7 Rare Washington Quarters Valued : Many of us handle Washington Quarters every day, scarcely giving them a second glance as we make change or drop them into a jar. Yet, nestled within this common coinage—minted for nearly a century—are rare dates, mint marks, and errors that can transform an ordinary quarter into a significant collectible. For numismatists and history enthusiasts alike, the pursuit of these coins is a rewarding journey through American history and artistry. This guide highlights some of the series’ most notable issues and offers advice on how to begin your own search.
Notable Dates and Varieties
While countless Washington Quarters exist, certain standouts have captured the attention of collectors due to their scarcity, historical context, or intriguing minting stories.
Washington Quarter Reference Table
| Key Date/Variety | Mint Mark | Mintage | Notable Feature | Why It’s Collected |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1932-D | D | 436,800 | First year of issue, Denver mint | Extreme scarcity in any grade; key series coin. |
| 1932-S | S | 408,000 | First year of issue, San Francisco mint | Low mintage; equally as scarce as the 1932-D. |
| 1942/1 | (Overdate) | N/A | “2” over a “1” in the date | Popular mint error; clear overdates are rare. |
| 1950-D | D | 21,075,000 | High mintage, but low survival in MS | Condition rarity; valuable in high mint-state grades. |
| 1965 Small Date | (Variety) | Very Limited | Small, slender numerals in date | One-year transitional variety after silver was removed. |
| 1970-S Small Date | S (Proof) | Limited | Small date on a proof coin | Scarce variety within the proof set series. |
| 1976-S Proof | S | 4,149,730 Proofs | Bicentennial design (drummer boy reverse) | Commemorative issue; prized with deep cameo contrast. |
The Key First-Year Issues 1932-D and 1932-S
Introduced in 1932 to commemorate the bicentennial of George Washington’s birth, the quarter series had a limited initial mintage outside the Philadelphia Mint. The coins struck at the Denver (“D”) and San Francisco (“S”) mints that year were produced in much smaller quantities than public demand required. Consequently, these coins entered circulation heavily and survivors in fine condition are elusive. A 1932-D or 1932-S quarter in uncirculated, sharply detailed condition is a centerpiece collection coin, often valued in the high hundreds or thousands of dollars, embodying the very start of a numismatic era.
The Intriguing Overdate 1942/1
This coin is a fascinating product of a minting anomaly. It resulted from a hub that was originally engraved with a 1941 date being partially repunched to create a 1942 date, leaving a clear trace of the underlying “1” beneath the “2.” This “overdate” error was not discovered until years later, making well-preserved examples highly desirable. The value hinges on the visibility of the doubling; clear examples represent a tangible piece of minting history and can command substantial premiums from specialists.
The Conditionally Scarce 1950-D
The 1950-D quarter had a sizable mintage, but coins that survived in pristine, mint-state condition are surprisingly few. Many were released into circulation and saw significant wear. Therefore, an example that retains its original luster, full mint bloom, and without any bag marks or scratches is considered conditionally rare. For collectors seeking “best-in-class” examples from the mid-20th century, a high-grade 1950-D is a prized and valuable find.
Modern Varieties 1965 and 1970-S Small Dates
Following the removal of silver from circulating coinage in 1965, the mint experimented with design modifications. For a very brief period, quarters were struck with a “Small Date” numeral style before the much more common “Large Date” was adopted. A similar scenario occurred with the 1970-S proof coins. Identifying these requires a keen eye: the Small Date numerals are more slender and have a different curvature. These subtle varieties are beloved by modern error and variety collectors, with pristine specimens holding notable value.
Commemorative Proofs The 1976-S
Struck in San Francisco for collectors, the 1976-S Bicentennial quarter was issued in both proof and uncirculated versions. The proof coins, distinguished by their mirror-like fields and frosted design elements, were made to celebrate the nation’s 200th anniversary. A deep cameo contrast between the fields and devices on these proofs, especially if still in their original government packaging, makes them a beautiful and historically significant collectible.
How to Begin Your Search
Starting your hunt is part of the fun. Begin by carefully examining any quarters you receive in change or have saved, focusing on the date and the mint mark on the obverse (heads side). Use a simple 5x to 10x magnifying glass to check for doubling or detail. Invest in a current coin grading guide or use reputable online price databases to understand values based on condition. Remember, a coin’s state of preservation is paramount—heavy wear drastically reduces value, even on a rare date.
Caring for Your Collection
Preservation is critical. Never clean a coin with chemicals or abrasives; this permanently damages the surface and obliterates its numismatic value. Handle coins by their edges and store them in inert materials like archival-quality plastic flips, acid-free cardboard holders, or sealed capsules. For valuable finds, consider professional authentication and grading by services like PCGS or NGC, which encapsulate the coin and verify its authenticity and condition, protecting your investment.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the most valuable Washington Quarter?
A: The 1932-D and 1932-S quarters in top mint-state grades are generally the most valuable regular-issue coins, often selling for thousands of dollars. Exceptional specimens with rare toning or perfect grades can reach even higher at auction.
Q: Are any Washington Quarters made of silver?
A: Yes. Quarters minted in 1964 and earlier are composed of 90% silver. Those dated 1932-1964 are commonly sought for both their collectible and precious metal value.
Q: Where is the mint mark located on a Washington Quarter?
A: From 1932 to 1964, the mint mark is found on the reverse (tails side), to the right of the bottom of the wreath. From 1968 to the present, it is located on the obverse (heads side), just above the date.
Q: I found a 1976 quarter with a special design. Is it rare?
A: All quarters minted in 1976 feature the Bicentennial “drummer boy” reverse. While common in circulation, the 1976-S proof versions, especially in high grade, are collectible. Circulated Bicentennial quarters do not carry a significant premium.
Q: What should I do if I think I’ve found a rare quarter?
A: Research first! Compare it to verified photos online or in a guidebook. If you believe it may be valuable, have it examined by a trusted local coin dealer or consider submitting it to a professional grading service for authentication.
Q: Why is collecting these quarters rewarding?
A: Beyond potential financial value, collecting is a tactile link to history. Each coin passed through countless hands and eras, from the Great Depression to the digital age. Building a collection fosters patience, sharpens observational skills, and connects you to a community passionate about history and art.
Conclusion
The humble Washington Quarter holds layers of history and potential waiting to be uncovered. Whether you’re drawn to the scarce early issues, the intrigue of mint errors, or the pursuit of perfect modern proofs, this series offers a accessible and endlessly fascinating field of study. By learning the key dates, handling your finds with care, and connecting with fellow collectors, you might just discover that a piece of significant value—both monetary and historical—has been in your pocket all along.
