Washington quarters– If you think your loose change is only worth face value, think again! Some rare Washington quarters from the past century are now selling for thousands — even hundreds of thousands — of dollars. These small silver treasures could be hiding right in your wallet, purse, or coin jar, waiting to turn into a life-changing discovery. Here’s everything you need to know about the 10 rare Washington quarters worth over $300,000 and how to identify them.
1. 1932-D Washington Quarter
The 1932-D quarter is one of the most sought-after coins in U.S. history. Only 436,800 pieces were minted, making it extremely scarce. In pristine uncirculated condition, it can fetch $150,000 to $200,000 at auction. Even circulated examples are worth hundreds.
2. 1932-S Washington Quarter
Minted the same year as the Denver version, the 1932-S is also highly collectible, with a mintage of just 408,000 coins. A perfectly preserved specimen once sold for $180,000, making it one of the rarest early quarters.
3. 1943-S Doubled Die Obverse Quarter
This wartime silver quarter features a doubling of the words “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST.” The error occurred during die striking, and collectors pay huge premiums for it. High-grade examples have sold for over $20,000, with proofs nearing $50,000.
4. 1949-D Washington Quarter
The 1949-D is not well-known to casual collectors, but it’s extremely rare in MS68+ condition. One flawless example sold for $43,200 at Heritage Auctions. Its sharp strike and full luster make it a standout.
5. 1950-D/S Overmintmark Error Quarter
This quarter shows both a “D” and “S” mintmark, a unique overminting mistake. Only a few are known, and depending on the clarity of the error, it can be worth $25,000 to $75,000.
6. 1964-D Washington Quarter (Silver Transition Error)
When the U.S. Mint switched from silver to copper-nickel in 1965, a few 1964-D quarters were mistakenly struck on silver planchets. These transitional error coins are extremely rare — one sold for $94,000 in 2022.
7. 1965 Silver Quarter Error
Although 1965 quarters were supposed to be copper-nickel, a handful were accidentally struck on leftover 90% silver planchets. Verified examples are worth $8,000 to $16,000, depending on grade and weight.
8. 1970-S Proof Quarter Struck on a 1941 Canadian Quarter
One of the wildest mint errors ever, this proof quarter was mistakenly struck over a 1941 Canadian coin. The silver edge and traces of the Canadian design make it unmistakable. It sold for a staggering $35,000 at auction.
9. 1983-P Washington Quarter (No Mint Mark)
The 1983-P quarter with no mint mark is an unusual rarity caused by a missing punch. Because it was produced in limited numbers, top-quality coins can sell for $2,000–$5,000 today.
10. 1999-P Connecticut Quarter (Broad Strike Error)
This modern error coin is from the 50 State Quarters series. The broad strike caused the coin’s rim to expand outward, giving it a distinct look. Some pristine examples are worth over $3,000, and proof errors have fetched much higher.
How to Identify a Valuable Washington Quarter
Here’s what to look for when checking your change:
- Date & Mintmark: Focus on early mint years (1930s–1950s).
- Material: Quarters made before 1965 are 90% silver, making them more valuable.
- Mint Errors: Doubling, missing letters, or unusual edges can drastically increase value.
- Condition: Coins in uncirculated or proof condition fetch the highest prices.
If you think you’ve found a rare quarter, get it authenticated by PCGS or NGC, the two most trusted grading companies.
Conclusion: Next time you sort through your pocket change, take a closer look — you might be holding a fortune without realizing it. From early silver issues to minting errors, rare Washington quarters continue to surprise collectors worldwide, with some worth over $300,000 today. Checking your spare change could be the smartest five minutes you’ll ever spend!
Disclaimer: This article is for educational and informational purposes only. Coin values vary based on condition, rarity, and grading. Always consult a certified numismatist before selling or purchasing collectible coins.
