Washington quarters have been part of American currency since 1932, originally minted to honor George Washington’s 200th birthday. While most quarters are worth only 25 cents, a select few rare issues and minting errors can be worth hundreds, thousands, or even tens of thousands of dollars today. Collectors actively seek out these gems, and some of them can still be found in circulation.
Below is a clear, easy guide to the nine most valuable Washington quarters and how to identify them.
1. 1932-D Washington Quarter
Value: Up to $50,700
Mint: Denver
Mintage: 436,800
Why It’s Rare: Lowest mintage of any Washington quarter.
What to Look For: “D” mint mark under the eagle on the reverse.
2. 1932-S Washington Quarter
Value: Up to $35,000
Mint: San Francisco
Mintage: 408,000
Why It’s Rare: One of the two inaugural low-mintage coins.
What to Look For: “S” mint mark below the eagle.
3. 1943-S Doubled Die Obverse Quarter
Value: Up to $20,000
Mint: San Francisco
Why It’s Rare: Strong doubling on LIBERTY and parts of Washington’s profile.
What to Look For: Doubling around “IN GOD WE TRUST” using magnification.
4. 1950-D/S Overmintmark Quarter
Value: Up to $5,000
Mint: Denver
Why It’s Rare: A “D” appears punched over an “S.”
What to Look For: Small “S” shadow beneath the “D.”
5. 1950-S/D Overmintmark Quarter
Value: Up to $4,000
Mint: San Francisco
Why It’s Rare: Reverse of the above—an “S” punched over a “D.”
What to Look For: Faint “D” showing under the “S.”
6. 1964-D Doubled Die Reverse Quarter
Value: Up to $7,000
Mint: Denver
Why It’s Rare: Noticeable doubling on reverse lettering.
What to Look For: Doubling on “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” and “QUARTER DOLLAR.”
7. 1970-S Proof Quarter (Struck on 1941 Canadian Coin)
Value: Up to $35,000
Mint: San Francisco
Why It’s Rare: Proof quarter struck on a silver Canadian coin—an extremely rare mint error.
What to Look For: Traces of Canadian design beneath the U.S. details.
8. 1983-P No Mint Mark Quarter
Value: Up to $1,500
Mint: Philadelphia
Why It’s Rare: Poor strike year; high-grade examples are scarce.
What to Look For: No mint mark under Washington’s neck.
9. 2004-D Wisconsin “Extra Leaf” Quarter
Value: Up to $2,500
Mint: Denver
Why It’s Rare: Die flaw created an extra leaf on the corn husk.
What to Look For: “High Leaf” or “Low Leaf” varieties on the reverse.
How to Identify a Rare Washington Quarter
Check the Mint Mark
- Pre-1968: On the reverse under the eagle
- Post-1968: On the obverse near Washington’s hair tie
Look for Error Signs
- Doubling in letters or numbers
- Missing mint marks
- Odd textures or extra shapes
Examine the Coin’s Condition
- Higher-grade coins (MS or Proof) are far more valuable
- Avoid cleaning coins, as this lowers value
Use Proper Tools
- 5x–10x magnifier
- Good lighting
- Digital scales for weight verification
Get Professional Grading
- PCGS and NGC offer certified grading and authentication
- Adds credibility and increases resale value
Conclusion
Rare Washington quarters are exciting finds for both beginners and experienced collectors. From historical low-mintage coins to unusual minting errors, these quarters can be worth far more than face value—sometimes thousands of dollars. Always check your spare change or coin jar; there may be a valuable treasure hidden in plain sight.
FAQs
Q1: Can rare Washington quarters still be found in circulation?
Yes, especially modern varieties like the 2004-D Wisconsin Extra Leaf quarter.
Q2: What is the most valuable Washington quarter?
The 1932-D quarter, which can reach up to $50,700 in top condition.
Q3: How do I know if my quarter is valuable?
Check the mint mark, look for errors, inspect condition, and compare with known rare varieties.
Q4: Where can I sell a rare quarter?
Reputable dealers, coin shows, PCGS/NGC marketplace, or major auction platforms.
Q5: Are proof quarters worth keeping?
Yes. Proof coins, especially error proofs like the 1970-S Canadian strike, can be highly valuable.