Since their debut in 1932, Washington quarters have been a cornerstone of American currency. While most are worth only 25 cents, a handful of rare varieties and minting errors have become incredibly valuable to collectors — with some examples fetching tens of thousands of dollars at auction.
If you’ve ever wondered whether an old quarter in your change could be worth a fortune, this guide reveals nine of the rarest Washington quarters, how to identify them, and what makes them so valuable.
The Rise of State Quarters – Tracking 11 Years of Value Changes
A Brief History of the Washington Quarter
The Washington quarter was first minted in 1932 to commemorate the 200th anniversary of George Washington’s birth. Designed by John Flanagan, the coin features Washington’s bust on the obverse and an eagle with outstretched wings on the reverse (used until 1998).
From 1932 to 1964, the quarter was struck in 90% silver, making older examples inherently valuable for their metal content. In 1965, the U.S. Mint switched to copper-nickel clad quarters — the same composition used today.
9 Rare Washington Quarters Worth Serious Money
1. 1932-D Washington Quarter
- Mint: Denver
- Mintage: ~436,800 (very low)
- Value: $200 – $50,700+ (depending on condition)
- Details: The first year of issue and one of the rarest quarters in circulation. High-grade specimens are especially valuable.
2. 1932-S Washington Quarter
- Mint: San Francisco
- Mintage: ~408,000
- Value: $150 – $25,000+
- Details: Released alongside the 1932-D, this coin’s low mintage makes it another key date for collectors.
3. 1937 Double Die Obverse
- Mint: Philadelphia
- Value: $500 – $5,000+
- Details: Look for doubling in the motto “IN GOD WE TRUST” and the word “LIBERTY.”
4. 1942-D Over Horizontal D (D over D Error)
- Mint: Denver
- Value: $150 – $2,500+
- Details: The mint mark was punched twice in different directions, creating a visible “D over D” effect.
5. 1950-D/S Overmintmark Variety
- Mint: Denver
- Value: $400 – $3,000+
- Details: A Denver mint mark stamped over an earlier San Francisco “S” — a fascinating and rare minting mistake.
6. 1955 Double Die Obverse
- Mint: Philadelphia
- Value: $400 – $2,000+
- Details: Noticeable doubling on the inscriptions and date make this coin stand out to collectors.
7. 1964-D Doubled Die Reverse
- Mint: Denver
- Value: $400 – $1,200+
- Details: Doubling can be seen on the eagle’s feathers and the lettering “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA.”
8. 1970-S Proof Silver Quarter (Overstruck on 1941 Canadian Quarter)
- Mint: San Francisco
- Value: $25,000 – $50,000+
- Details: A one-of-a-kind minting error where a 1970-S proof quarter was accidentally struck over a 1941 Canadian quarter.
9. 1999-P Delaware “Spitting Horse” Quarter
- Mint: Philadelphia
- Value: $10 – $250+
- Details: A die crack makes it appear as if the horse on the reverse is “spitting.” A modern favorite among collectors.
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How to Identify a Valuable Quarter
When checking your quarters, pay attention to:
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Date and Mint Mark – Located just right of Washington’s ponytail. Rare years and low-mintage mints (like “D” and “S”) are worth inspecting.
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Errors and Varieties – Look for doubled lettering, misplaced mint marks, or extra details in the design.
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Condition (Grade) – Coins with little to no wear (Uncirculated or Mint State) are worth far more than circulated ones.
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Silver Content – All quarters minted before 1965 are 90% silver, making even common ones valuable for their bullion content.
Preserving and Appraising Your Quarters
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Never clean your coins — it can destroy value.
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Store them in acid-free holders or coin flips.
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For rare finds, get them graded by a professional service like PCGS or NGC.
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Use a magnifying glass to spot subtle errors and doubling.
Final Thoughts
The Washington quarter’s long history makes it one of the most collectible U.S. coins. While millions were minted, only a small number contain the rare errors, low mintages, or special conditions that turn a 25-cent coin into a five-figure treasure.
So before you spend that shiny quarter in your hand, take a second look — it just might be one of the rare nine worth up to $50,700.
FAQ Rare Washington Quarters
Q1: Are any Washington quarters really worth thousands?
A: Yes. Some rare dates and error varieties can sell for hundreds to tens of thousands of dollars, depending on rarity and condition.
Q2: Which Washington quarters are the most valuable?
The top rare ones include:
- 1932-D: up to $50,700+
- 1932-S: up to $25,000+
- 1970-S Proof (overstruck on Canadian coin): up to $50,000+
- 1942-D Over D: up to $2,500+
- 1950-D/S Overmintmark: up to $3,000+
Q3: How do I identify a rare Washington quarter?
Check for:
- Dates 1932–1964 (silver content)
- Mint marks (“D” for Denver, “S” for San Francisco)
- Doubling, cracks, or overstrikes
- Unusual shine or sharp details (proof or specimen strikes)
Q4: Are silver quarters more valuable?
A: Yes — all quarters made before 1965 are 90% silver and worth at least $4–$6 each in bullion value.
Q5: Should I clean my old quarters?
A: Never. Cleaning can scratch the surface and lower collector value.
Q6: What’s the rarest modern Washington quarter?
A: The 1999-P Delaware “Spitting Horse” error is a popular modern rarity, valued up to $250 in mint condition.
Q7: How can I get my quarter appraised?
A: Send it to a professional grading service like PCGS or NGC for official certification.
