Top 9 Most Valuable Washington Quarters: The Washington Quarter is a staple of American currency, first minted in 1932 to celebrate George Washington’s 200th birthday. While most of these coins are only worth 25 cents, some rare and valuable Washington quarters can be worth thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars. Their value often comes from low mintage, minting errors, or pristine condition, making them highly sought after by collectors.
In this article, we’ll explore the top 9 most valuable Washington quarters that could be hidden in your pocket or coin jar. Plus, we’ll share tips on how to identify these rare treasures and what factors influence their value.
Overview: Top 9 Valuable Washington Quarters
| Year & Mint Mark | Unique Feature | Estimated Value |
| 1932-D Washington Quarter | Low mintage, Denver Mint | $10,000 – $50,000+ |
| 1932-S Washington Quarter | Low mintage, San Francisco Mint | $7,500 – $25,000 |
| 1943/2 Washington Quarter | Overstamped year due to minting error | $25,000+ |
| 1950-D Washington Quarter | Low mintage, key date | $5,000 – $20,000 |
| 1936 Double Die Reverse | Reverse side design appears doubled | $10,000 – $40,000 |
| 1941 Doubled Die Obverse | Front design appears doubled | $4,000 – $15,000 |
| 1937 Full Bands | Clear ribbons and bands on the eagle’s chest | Up to $10,000+ |
| 1964 Silver Washington Quarter | Last year of 90% silver quarters | $10 – $300+ |
| 1934 Full Head | Sharp details on George Washington’s head | $5,000 – $15,000 |
1. 1932-D Washington Quarter
The 1932-D Washington Quarter is one of the rarest and most valuable Washington quarters. Minted in Denver, only 436,800 of these coins were produced, making them scarce even when first issued. Today, collectors prize this quarter for both its historical significance and limited availability. If you find one in excellent condition, it could be worth anywhere from $10,000 to over $50,000. Uncirculated specimens, especially those with minimal wear and sharp details, fetch the highest prices at auctions.
2. 1932-S Washington Quarter
The 1932-S Washington Quarter, minted in San Francisco, is another key date coin from the series’ first year. With a mintage of just 408,000 coins, it is even rarer than the 1932-D. Collectors highly value this quarter due to its scarcity and historical significance. Depending on its condition, it can sell for $7,500 to $25,000. Coins in near-perfect condition, with sharp details and minimal wear, can command even higher prices.
3. 1943/2 Washington Quarter
The 1943/2 Washington Quarter is famous for a minting error where the year “1943” was struck over a die intended for “1942.” This overlapping of dates is clearly visible upon close inspection, making the coin highly desirable among collectors. Due to its rarity, a well-preserved example can easily sell for $25,000 or more. Coins with sharp details and minimal wear can fetch premium prices, especially in uncirculated condition.
4. 1950-D Washington Quarter
The 1950-D Washington Quarter, minted in Denver, is a key date coin that is challenging to find in high-grade condition. Despite being a mid-20th-century coin, its low mintage makes it valuable. Collectors are willing to pay $5,000 to $20,000 for well-preserved specimens, with the highest-grade coins commanding the most money. Its scarcity and demand among collectors ensure its status as one of the most valuable Washington quarters.
5. 1936 Washington Quarter (Double Die Reverse)
The 1936 Washington Quarter with a double die reverse is another prized coin due to a minting error. This error caused the design on the reverse side to appear doubled, creating a unique and visually striking effect. Collectors seek out these error coins, making them highly valuable. Depending on the condition, this quarter can sell for anywhere from $10,000 to $40,000, with uncirculated examples reaching the upper end of that range.
6. 1941 Washington Quarter (Doubled Die Obverse)
The 1941 Washington Quarter with a doubled die obverse is one of the most sought-after error coins in the series. The doubling is visible on the front side of the coin, particularly in the lettering and design elements. Collectors prize this quarter for its rarity and unique appearance. Depending on its condition, it can be worth between $4,000 and $15,000, with uncirculated specimens commanding the highest prices.
7. 1937 Washington Quarter (Full Bands)
The 1937 Washington Quarter with full bands is a rare variant that features clear and well-defined ribbons and bands across the eagle’s chest. The sharpness of these details increases the coin’s desirability among collectors. In excellent condition, this quarter can sell for up to $10,000 or more, especially if graded as uncirculated by a professional numismatist. Its detailed design and rarity make it a prized addition to any coin collection.
8. 1964 Washington Quarter (Silver Version)
The 1964 Washington Quarter is unique because it was the last year that the U.S. Mint produced quarters using 90% silver. Although more common than other coins on this list, its silver content makes it more valuable than regular quarters. In circulated condition, it can be worth between $10 and $25, while uncirculated or high-grade examples can sell for $300 or more. This quarter is popular among both coin collectors and silver investors.
9. 1934 Washington Quarter (Full Head)
The 1934 Washington Quarter with a full head design is another valuable coin. The term “full head” refers to the sharp and clear details on George Washington’s head and hair. Coins with this level of detail are rare, especially in high-grade condition. Depending on its grade, a 1934 quarter with a full head design can sell for between $5,000 and $15,000. Uncirculated examples with minimal wear and sharp details are particularly valuable.
Tips for Identifying Valuable Washington Quarters
If you think you might have a valuable Washington quarter, here are some key features to check:
- Mint Mark: Look for mint marks such as “D” (Denver) and “S” (San Francisco). Coins from these mints are often rarer than those from Philadelphia (no mint mark).
- Year: Pay special attention to coins from 1932, 1934, 1936, 1937, 1941, 1943, 1950, and 1964, as these years produced some of the most valuable quarters.
- Condition: Coins in better condition are worth more. Look for coins with minimal scratches, wear, and discoloration. Uncirculated coins or those with clear details fetch the highest prices.
- Minting Errors: Check for minting errors such as doubled dies, overstamped dates, and misaligned strikes. These errors significantly increase a coin’s value.
- Silver Content: Quarters minted before 1965 contain 90% silver, making them more valuable than modern quarters.
FAQs
1. How can I tell if my Washington Quarter is valuable?
Look at the coin’s year, mint mark, and condition. Quarters from 1932, 1934, 1936, 1937, 1941, 1943, 1950, and 1964 are often the most valuable. Also, check for minting errors and coins with clear details.
2. What is the most valuable Washington Quarter?
The 1932-D Washington Quarter is one of the most valuable, with prices reaching $50,000 or more in excellent condition. Its low mintage makes it highly sought after by collectors.
3. Are 1964 Washington Quarters valuable?
Yes. Since they were the last quarters made with 90% silver, they are worth more than face value. In good condition, they can sell for $10 to $25, while uncirculated examples can be worth $300 or more.
4. How do minting errors affect a quarter’s value?
Minting errors such as doubled dies and overstamped dates make coins rare and highly collectible, significantly increasing their value. For example, the 1943/2 Washington Quarter can sell for $25,000 or more due to its minting error.
5. Can I still find valuable Washington Quarters in circulation?
Although rare, it is possible to find valuable Washington quarters in circulation, especially older coins or those with minting errors. Be sure to check your change carefully—you might discover a hidden treasure!
Final Thought
Collecting coins can be both a rewarding hobby and a profitable investment. These valuable Washington quarters prove that spare change can sometimes be worth a fortune. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a beginner, keep an eye out for these rare quarters—you might just find one in your pocket!
Have you ever found a valuable coin? Share your story in the comments below, and don’t forget to explore our other articles on rare coins and collectibles! 😊
