Could an old quarter in your jar be worth $50,700? Discover the 9 rarest Washington quarters from 1932–1964 that collectors are paying big money for – plus exactly how to spot them before you spend them!
What Are Rare Washington Quarters?
The Washington quarter is the everyday 25-cent piece you’ve seen a million times – except some dates and mint marks turn them into five- and six-figure treasures. Minting mistakes, low production runs, and silver content make certain ones ultra-rare.
A Quick History of the Washington Quarter
Designed in 1932 to celebrate George Washington’s 200th birthday, the quarter replaced the Standing Liberty design. From 1932–1964 they were 90% silver (huge value even for common dates today). In 1965, silver was removed – that’s why pre-1965 quarters are always worth checking!
Why Are Some Worth $50,000+ Today?
Three reasons:
- Tiny mintages during the Great Depression
- Die errors and double strikes collectors love
- The exploding rare coin market – prices have doubled in the last 5 years for top grades.
The 9 Rarest & Most Valuable Washington Quarters in 2025
- 1932-D – The key date! Only 436,800 minted. MS-66 examples hit $35,000–$50,700.
- 1932-S – Slightly more minted (408,000) but still brings $10,000+ in high grade.
- 1936-D – Doubled die obverse error. Fine examples $1,500; gems over $15,000.
- 1942-D Doubled Die Obverse – Dramatic doubling on “LIBERTY”. Up to $12,000.
- 1950-D/S – Mint mark punched over another. Rare and $8,000+.
- 1937 Doubled Die Obverse – Strong doubling on date and motto. $5,000–$10,000.
- 1943-S Doubled Die Obverse – Super scarce, routinely $7,000+.
- 1934 Doubled Die Obverse – One of the boldest errors. $3,000–$9,000.
- 1964-D Doubled Die Reverse – Last silver year + error = $2,500–$6,000.
How to Identify These Money-Makers
- Check the date and mint mark (under the wreath on the reverse pre-1968)
- Look for dramatic doubling with a 10x loupe
- Use the free PCGS CoinFacts or NGC Coin Explorer apps
- Weigh it – silver quarters are 6.25 grams (1965+ are 5.67g)
Current Market Values (2025 Table)
| Year | Variety/Error | Good–Fine | MS-65 | Record Sale |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1932-D | Regular | $120 | $15,000+ | $50,700 (2023) |
| 1932-S | Regular | $100 | $10,000+ | $27,000 |
| 1936-D | Doubled Die Obverse | $400 | $12,000 | $18,400 |
| 1942-D | Doubled Die Obverse | $350 | $8,500 | $12,000 |
| 1950-D/S | Overmintmark | $600 | $8,000 | $11,500 |
Expert Tips: Don’t Clean Your Coins!
Never polish or dip rare coins – cleaning can drop value 90%. Store in cardboard 2×2 flips or plastic albums. Get high-value coins graded by PCGS or NGC – a $20 grading fee can turn a $500 coin into a $15,000 one.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are all 1964 and earlier quarters silver?
A: Yes, 90% silver from 1932–1964 (except wartime nickels).
Q: Where can I sell a rare Washington quarter?
A: Reputable dealers, Heritage Auctions, or eBay with strong photos.
Q: What’s the most ever paid for a Washington quarter?
A: $50,700 for a 1932-D MS-66+ in 2023 – and prices keep climbing!
Final Thoughts – Start Looking Today!
Your spare change jar, old cash register, or grandma’s cookie tin could literally hold a $50,000 quarter. Grab a magnifying glass, check every 1932–1964 quarter you own, and who knows – your next coffee change could pay off the mortgage!