Washington quarters have been produced since 1932, and while most are worth their face value, some can command astonishing prices, especially those in exceptional condition or with rare minting qualities. Here’s a look at some of the most valuable Washington quarters and what makes them so sought after by collectors.
1. 1966 Clad Washington Quarter, MS68+ – $21,000
The 1966 Philadelphia-minted Washington quarter stands out among its peers. Despite being part of a massive production run of over 821 million, a coin in pristine MS68+ condition is a true rarity. The PCGS, a leading coin grading service, reports that only one example has ever reached this grade, and it fetched an impressive $21,000 in May 2023. Most 1966 quarters are worth only a few dollars, but an MS68+ piece represents the absolute best of its kind.
2. 1953 D Silver Washington Quarter, MS68 – $21,500
This 1953 D silver Washington quarter, minted in Denver, is another collector’s treasure. With over 56 million coins struck, many of them are in circulated condition, worth just a few dollars. However, an MS68 version, in flawless condition, is extremely rare and has a value of $21,500. This makes it one of the highest-priced Washington quarters in existence.
3. 1949 D Silver Washington Quarter, MS68 – $22,500
The 1949 D Washington quarter, minted in Denver, had a relatively small mintage of just over 10 million coins. While most are not particularly rare, finding one in MS68 condition is a significant challenge. This near-perfect coin can command up to $22,500, making it one of the most coveted Washington quarters among collectors.
4. 1955 D Silver Washington Quarter, MS68 – $22,500
Produced in limited numbers, the 1955 D Washington quarter had just over 3 million coins minted. Though many circulated examples are readily available, finding one in MS68 condition is rare. This coin can sell for up to $22,500, a price driven by its rarity and the high grade it holds among similar coins.
5. 1943 S Silver Washington Quarter, MS68 – $23,500
The 1943 S Washington quarter, minted in San Francisco, is another valuable piece. Although a large number of these coins were produced, those in perfect condition are few and far between. With an MS68 grade, this quarter can fetch around $23,500, making it a highly sought-after coin for collectors.
6. 1963 D Silver Washington Quarter, MS68 – $24,000
One of the last silver Washington quarters produced, the 1963 D edition stands out for its pristine condition. While most examples are worth only a few dollars, a rare MS68 piece can be worth as much as $24,000. This makes the 1963 D one of the most expensive Washington quarters of its era.
7. 1945 S Silver Washington Quarter, MS68 – $25,000
The 1945 S Washington quarter, struck in San Francisco, is particularly valuable in top condition. Most circulated coins are worth only a few dollars, but those in MS68 condition can fetch a price of $25,000. The scarcity of these high-grade examples makes this coin a true gem for collectors.
8. 1937 Silver Washington Quarter, MS68 – $25,000
A Philadelphia-minted quarter from 1937, the 1937 Washington quarter is another highly valuable coin when in excellent condition. Although coins in circulated condition are worth relatively little, those rated MS68 are worth a staggering $25,000. Only a handful of these coins are in such remarkable condition, making them highly desirable.
9. 1936 Silver Washington Quarter, MS68 – $25,000
The 1936 Washington quarter, also minted in Philadelphia, is another rare find in mint state. While coins in lower grades may cost between $8 and $100, an MS68 example can sell for $25,000. The rarity of such coins in mint condition adds to their allure, and collectors are willing to pay top dollar for the best specimens.
These Washington quarters, particularly those from the 1940s, 1950s, and early 1960s, are highly prized for their rarity and quality. Coins in mint state (MS67 or higher) can fetch thousands, with the top-grade examples breaking records. If you’re a collector, keeping an eye out for these rare coins can yield some incredibly valuable finds.