Imagine pulling a dusty quarter from your pocket change… and discovering it’s worth enough for a luxury vacation! While most Washington quarters are worth exactly 25 cents, a tiny handful of ultra-rare errors and varieties have sold for $20,000, $35,000, even $50,700 at auction. Ready to hunt your own fortune? Keep scrolling – these 9 rare Washington quarters could be hiding in your jar right now.
What Are Rare Washington Quarters?
The Washington quarter has been minted since 1932. Most are common silver or copper-nickel coins, but minting mistakes, low production runs, and special varieties created ultra-rare pieces collectors fight over.
A Quick History of the Washington Quarter
Designed by John Flanagan to celebrate George Washington’s 200th birthday, the quarter replaced the Standing Liberty design in 1932. It was 90% silver until 1964, then switched to copper-nickel in 1965 – creating two very different eras for collectors.
Why Some Quarters Are Worth a Fortune Today
Demand is skyrocketing! With millions of new collectors entering the hobby, error coins and key dates have exploded in value. A single certified example can bring 100–200 times melt value.
The 9 Most Valuable Washington Quarters (2024–2025 Values)
| Rank | Year & Variety | Highest Auction Price | Key Identifier | Mintage / Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1932-D | $50,700 | Small “D” mintmark | Only 436,800 minted |
| 2 | 1932-S | $45,500 | Tiny “S” mintmark | Just 408,000 minted |
| 3 | 1940-S Doubled Die Obverse | $35,250 | Doubling on “LIBERTY” & date | Very dramatic error |
| 4 | 1950-D D/S Re-punched Mintmark | $28,800 | “D” over “S” visible under magnification | Scarce variety |
| 5 | 1937 Doubled Die Obverse | $22,500 | Strong doubling on “IN GOD WE TRUST” | Popular error |
| 6 | 1942-D Doubled Die Obverse | $18,400 | Clear doubling on date & motto | Underrated variety |
| 7 | 1964-D Doubled Die Reverse | $15,600 | Doubling on “E PLURIBUS UNUM” | Last silver year error |
| 8 | 1934 Doubled Die Obverse | $12,900 | Doubling on “GOD WE TRUST” | Classic early error |
| 9 | 1950-S S/D (Over Mintmark) | $9,800 | “S” over “D” mintmark | Fun variety for beginners |
(Prices reflect recent PCGS/NGC certified sales – raw coins sell for less.)
How to Spot These Treasures in Your Change
- Grab a 10x loupe (under $10 on Amazon).
- Check the date and mintmark first (D = Denver, S = San Francisco, no mark = Philadelphia).
- Look for doubling, die cracks, or off-center strikes.
- Compare to online photos – Coin Community and PCGS CoinFacts are free.
Expert Tips to Start Your Hunt Safely
- Never clean coins – it destroys value.
- Store finds in cardboard 2×2 flips, not random jars.
- Get valuable coins graded by PCGS or NGC before selling.
- Join local coin clubs – members love helping new hunters!
Quick Value Comparison Table
| Condition | 1932-D Common | 1932-D MS66 (Gem) |
|---|---|---|
| Circulated | $20–$40 | — |
| Mint State 65 | $300–$500 | $15,000+ |
| Mint State 67 | — | $50,000+ |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I still find these in circulation?
A: Almost never for the top 1932-D/S, but later errors like the 1950 D/S still pop up!
Q: Where’s the best place to sell?
A: Heritage Auctions, GreatCollections, or local reputable dealers.
Q: Are bicentennial quarters (1976) valuable?
A: Only silver proof versions – regular ones are still 25¢.
Final Thoughts – Your Fortune Could Be Sitting in a Jar!
These 9 rare Washington quarters prove that pocket change can change your life. Grab that old coffee can, your phone flashlight, and a magnifier – you literally have nothing to lose and potentially tens of thousands to gain. Found something cool? Drop a comment below and tell us your story! Happy hunting, friends!