When it comes to coin collecting, the condition of the coin plays a huge role in its value. While coins in perfect condition are typically the most valuable, even used coins can be worth more than their face value. In this article, we’ll dive into some of the most valuable quarters currently in circulation. We’ll discuss how to spot these rare finds and why collectors are so interested in them.
1. 2019-W and 2020-W Washington Quarters
The Washington quarter has a long history, having been minted since 1932. However, in 2019 and 2020, the U.S. Mint introduced a special series of quarters. These were struck at the West Point Mint, which is not usually used for regular coin production. Only 2 million of each design were made, and they were released into circulation without being sold directly to collectors. This makes them particularly rare. Currently, these quarters are not valued higher than face value in used condition, but their scarcity means they could become valuable collector’s items in the future.
2. 1932-D Washington Quarter
The 1932-D Washington quarter is another valuable coin due to its low mintage. Only 436,800 of these coins were produced at the Denver Mint, making it a rare find for collectors. The value of a 1932-D quarter depends heavily on its condition. A low-grade coin may still fetch $225, while higher-graded versions can be worth several hundred dollars. A well-preserved example could even reach $500 or more.
3. 1932-S Washington Quarter
The 1932-S Washington quarter holds the title of the lowest-minted Washington quarter, with only 408,000 produced. Today, only around 40,000 remain, and even fewer are in mint condition. A typical 1932-S in decent condition could fetch around $85, but a coin graded as “about uncirculated” could be worth upwards of $300 or more, depending on its exact grade.
4. 1937-S Washington Quarter
The 1937-S Washington quarter, minted at the San Francisco Mint, is another rare coin due to its relatively low production. While not as rare as the 1932 quarters, the 1937-S is still highly sought after. Depending on the condition, these coins can range from $9 for lower grades to $165 for “about uncirculated” specimens.
5. 2004-D Wisconsin State Quarter, Extra Leaf (Low)
The 2004-D Wisconsin state quarter is famous for a small error that makes it valuable. The error features an extra leaf in the corn husk design on the reverse. This variety, known as the “extra leaf low,” is relatively rare and can be worth anywhere from $38 to $80, depending on its condition. Coins graded as “very fine” can reach the higher end of this range.
6. 2004-D Wisconsin State Quarter, Extra Leaf (High)
Another error found in the 2004-D Wisconsin state quarter series is the “extra leaf high” variety. This rare mistake features an extra leaf sticking out above the corn husk, and while it’s slightly more valuable than the low variety, the difference in price is not significant. A coin graded as “very fine” can be worth around $45, with higher grades pushing the value to about $75 or more.
7. 1934 Washington Quarter, Double Die Obverse
A striking error known as a “double die obverse” appears on certain 1934 Washington quarters. This error results in a visible doubling of the coin’s design elements, particularly on the motto “IN GOD WE TRUST” and the word “LIBERTY.” These coins are valuable even in lower grades, with prices starting at $45 for a grade 2 coin. Higher-grade examples can command much higher prices, with “extremely fine” examples reaching up to $235 or more.
8. 1943 Washington Quarter, Double Die Obverse
The 1943 Washington quarter is another coin with a double die obverse error, but this one is particularly rare and valuable. The doubling is more apparent without magnification and can be found on the motto “IN GOD WE TRUST,” the word “LIBERTY,” and the date. Coins with this error are highly sought after, and even lower-grade examples can fetch significant prices, often well above their face value.
9. 1950-S/D Washington Quarter
The 1950-S/D Washington quarter is known for its “overpunched mintmark” error, where the “D” mintmark is overstruck on top of the “S” mintmark. This variety is more common in mint state than in circulation, but it remains a valuable find. Depending on the grade, a 1950-S/D coin can be worth anywhere from $26 for a lower-grade example to $325 for a high-grade specimen.
10. 1950-D/S Washington Quarter
The 1950-D/S Washington quarter features another overpunched mintmark error, where the “S” mintmark was overstruck on top of the “D” mintmark. This variety is rarer than the S/D overpunched coin and can be valuable to collectors. A 1950-D/S quarter in circulated condition is worth about $26, but higher-grade coins can reach values up to $220 or more, especially for those graded “about uncirculated.”
Conclusion
While most quarters in circulation are worth only their face value, there are several rare and valuable varieties that collectors actively seek out. Whether it’s a limited edition 2019-W or 2020-W quarter, an error coin like the 2004 Wisconsin “extra leaf” quarters, or a historic piece like the 1932-D or 1932-S Washington quarters, these coins can be worth far more than you might expect. Always pay attention to the details, such as mint marks, error designs, and coin condition, as they can significantly affect a quarter’s value. Happy hunting!