Washington quarter dollars, those 25-cent coins with George Washington’s face, have been around since 1932. Most are worth just their face value, but a few rare ones can sell for thousands or even millions at auction. If you’ve got some old quarters lying around, you might be holding a treasure! Here’s a look at the top four most valuable Washington quarters in the world, why they’re so special, and how to spot them in your pocket change.
Why Are Some Washington Quarters So Valuable?
Not every Washington quarter is a big deal. Their value comes down to a few things: how many were made, the coin’s condition, and any minting errors. Quarters from certain years or mints with low production numbers are super rare. Coins in “uncirculated” condition—shiny and untouched—are worth more. Errors, like doubled designs or wrong metals, make some quarters stand out. Let’s check out the four rarest Washington quarters that collectors dream about.
The Top 4 Most Valuable Washington Quarters
| Quarter | Key Feature | Potential Value |
|---|---|---|
| 1932-D | Low mintage, “D” mint mark | $500–$143,000+ |
| 1932-S | Low mintage, “S” mint mark | $300–$100,000+ |
| 1964-D Doubled Die | Clear doubling on obverse | $1,000–$50,000+ |
| 1950-D/S | “D” over “S” mint mark | $100–$15,000+ |
- 1932-D: Minted in Denver with only 436,800 coins, this is one of the rarest Washington quarters. In top condition, it can sell for up to $143,000, as reported by L&C Coins. Even worn ones fetch hundreds.
- 1932-S: The San Francisco mint made just 408,000 of these, making them super scarce. A pristine one can hit $100,000 at auction, while circulated ones start at $300.
- 1964-D Doubled Die: This error coin has doubling on Washington’s portrait and words. It’s rare, especially in uncirculated condition, and can sell for $50,000 or more. Benzinga notes its high demand among collectors.
- 1950-D/S: This coin has a “D” mint mark punched over an “S,” a minting mistake. In great shape, it can fetch $15,000, as CoinValueChecker.com highlights.
What Makes These Coins So Special?
These quarters are prized for their rarity and unique features. The 1932-D and 1932-S quarters were the first Washington quarters ever made, with tiny mintages compared to later years. Their low production happened because of the Great Depression, when fewer coins were needed. The 1964-D Doubled Die is a striking error, with doubled text and images visible to the naked eye, making it a collector’s gem. The 1950-D/S quarter’s mint mark error is a rare mistake, as mint workers accidentally used a San Francisco die in Denver. Coins in top condition, especially pre-1965 silver ones, are worth the most.
How to Spot These Rare Quarters
You might find these valuable quarters in old change, coin rolls, or family collections. Start by checking the date and mint mark, a small letter below Washington’s neck. A “D” means Denver, an “S” means San Francisco, and no letter means Philadelphia. Use a magnifying glass to look for doubling on the 1964-D or a faint “S” under a “D” on the 1950-D/S. If a coin looks shiny and unworn, it could be uncirculated and worth more. Compare your coin to pictures online or in coin guides to be sure.
How to Sell Your Valuable Quarters
If you think you’ve found one of these rare quarters, get it checked by a pro. Coin grading services like PCGS or NGC can confirm its condition and authenticity, which boosts its value. You can sell through trusted coin dealers, auction houses, or online platforms like eBay. Be cautious of scams and only deal with reputable buyers. For example, CoinValueChecker.com suggests using verified platforms for appraisals. Rare coins like the 1932-D or 1964-D Doubled Die can fetch big bucks at auction, so don’t rush to sell without research.
Start Hunting for These Coin Treasures
Washington quarters are more than just change—they’re pieces of history that could be worth a fortune. The 1932-D, 1932-S, 1964-D Doubled Die, and 1950-D/S quarters are the top four to look for, with values ranging from hundreds to over $100,000. Check your spare change, dig through old jars, or visit a coin shop. With a little luck, you might find a rare Washington quarter that could change your life. Happy coin hunting!
