9 Rare Washington Quarters– The Washington Quarter may seem like an ordinary 25-cent coin, but a few rare versions are worth thousands of dollars today. Hidden in pocket change, inherited collections, or old coin jars, these vintage quarters have become treasures for collectors worldwide. Over the decades, minting errors, low production numbers, and unique metal compositions have turned select Washington Quarters into valuable collectibles. Some of these coins are now worth as much as $50,700, making them a dream find for any coin enthusiast. Here’s a complete look at nine rare Washington Quarters and how to identify them easily.
1. 1932-D Washington Quarter
The 1932-D is the crown jewel of the Washington Quarter series. Minted at the Denver Mint, only 436,800 pieces were produced — one of the lowest mintages in U.S. coin history. Even well-worn examples can fetch over $200, while uncirculated specimens may sell for $20,000–$40,000. Look for a small “D” mint mark on the reverse beneath the eagle to confirm its origin.
2. 1932-S Washington Quarter
Another key rarity, the 1932-S, had an even smaller production run of 408,000 coins at the San Francisco Mint. This makes it one of the most desirable coins in the Washington Quarter lineup. A circulated piece can be worth $150–$500, while a high-grade uncirculated version may reach $15,000 or more. Spot the “S” mint mark below the eagle’s tail to identify it.
3. 1943 Doubled Die Obverse Quarter
The 1943 Doubled Die error is one of the most popular varieties among collectors. If you look closely, you’ll notice doubling in the letters “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST.” This minting error happened when the die struck the design twice slightly off-center. Depending on the clarity of the doubling, this coin can be worth between $500 and $1,500.
4. 1950-D/S Overmintmark Quarter
The 1950-D/S Overmintmark variety occurred when a Denver mint mark was stamped over a San Francisco one, creating a distinct overlapping mark visible under magnification. Because of its rarity, this coin often sells for $400–$2,000, with top-graded versions going higher. Check the reverse under the eagle’s tail for the telltale D/S mint mark combination.
5. 1964-D Silver Quarter
The 1964-D Quarter was the final year the U.S. Mint struck quarters in 90% silver before switching to copper-nickel clad coins. Collectors prize it not only for its silver content but also for its historical importance as the end of an era. Circulated examples are valued at $10–$50, while uncirculated and prooflike versions can command $200–$1,000 or more.
6. 1970-S Proof Quarter Struck on a 1941 Canadian Coin
One of the most remarkable minting mistakes ever, a 1970-S Proof Quarter was accidentally struck over a 1941 Canadian silver quarter. The two overlapping designs created an incredibly rare collectible, with only a handful known to exist. In auction, one sold for over $35,000, making it one of the most valuable modern quarters ever discovered.
7. 1976 Bicentennial Quarter Double Die Error
The 1976 Bicentennial Quarter, celebrating America’s 200th anniversary, features the iconic drummer boy design. Some of these coins were struck with a double die obverse, creating visible doubling on “1776–1976” and “IN GOD WE TRUST.” These error coins can sell for $500–$1,500, depending on condition and clarity of doubling.
8. 1999-P Connecticut Quarter Experimental Planchet
During the early stages of the state quarter program, a few 1999-P Connecticut quarters were accidentally struck on experimental metal planchets designed for the Sacagawea Dollar. These coins appear golden in color and weigh slightly less than regular quarters. Because of their extreme rarity, one sold for $10,000 in an auction.
9. 2004-D Wisconsin Quarter with Extra Leaf
Among modern finds, the 2004-D Wisconsin State Quarter stands out for its famous “extra leaf” error on the corn stalk — available in both high leaf and low leaf varieties. This happened due to a die flaw during minting. Depending on the condition and leaf variety, these coins are worth $200–$1,500, with pristine examples commanding even more.
How to Identify a Rare Washington Quarter
9 Rare Washington Quarters: Finding one of these rare quarters starts with careful inspection. Always check for mint marks (usually under the eagle’s tail or beside Washington’s ponytail on modern coins) and unusual features like doubling, extra leaves, or odd coloration. Weigh your coin — pre-1965 silver quarters weigh 6.25 grams, while modern clad quarters weigh 5.67 grams. If your coin feels heavier or has an unusual finish, it could be a special variety or mint error.
Why Washington Quarters Are Valuable
The value of these quarters lies in their combination of rarity, history, and condition. Early silver issues attract investors, while minting errors and key dates fascinate collectors. As online auctions and coin forums grow, interest in vintage U.S. coins has surged, pushing prices even higher. Many experts believe that rare Washington Quarters will continue to appreciate as fewer high-grade examples remain in circulation.
Conclusion: The Washington Quarter is more than just pocket change — it’s a piece of American history. From the rare 1932-D and 1932-S issues to modern errors like the 2004-D Wisconsin Extra Leaf, these coins show how small details can translate into big value. If you ever come across an old or unusual quarter, inspect it closely — it could be worth thousands, or even tens of thousands, of dollars.
Disclaimer: Values mentioned are based on verified coin auction data and market trends as of 2025. Prices may vary depending on rarity, condition, and grading certification. Always consult professional grading services such as PCGS or NGC for authentication and accurate valuation.
