Washington quarters are among the most collected coins in U.S. history. First introduced in 1932 to honor the 200th anniversary of George Washington’s birth, these coins have been a mainstay of American currency ever since. However, some Washington quarters are far more valuable than their 25¢ face value—certain rare editions and minting errors can be worth tens of thousands of dollars today.
Let’s explore the nine rarest and most valuable Washington quarters, how to identify them, and what makes each one so special.
1932-D Washington Quarter – Up to $50,700
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Mint: Denver
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Mintage: 436,800
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Why It’s Rare: One of the first-year issues and the lowest mintage of all Washington quarters.
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Identification Tip: Look for the “D” mint mark on the reverse side, below the eagle.
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Value Range: $1,000–$50,700 depending on condition.
1932-S Washington Quarter – Up to $35,000
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Mint: San Francisco
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Mintage: 408,000
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Why It’s Rare: Alongside the 1932-D, it’s one of the two low-mintage inaugural coins.
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Identification Tip: The “S” mint mark under the eagle.
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Value Range: $800–$35,000 (mint-state coins fetch the most).
1943-S Doubled Die Obverse Quarter – Up to $20,000
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Mint: San Francisco
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Mintage: Unknown (error coin)
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Why It’s Rare: The doubling effect on “LIBERTY” and Washington’s eye makes it highly collectible.
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Identification Tip: Use a magnifier—look for clear doubling around “IN GOD WE TRUST.”
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Value Range: $2,000–$20,000.
1950-D/S Overmintmark Quarter – Up to $5,000
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Mint: Denver (D punched over an “S”)
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Why It’s Rare: A minting error where two mint marks overlap.
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Identification Tip: Look closely—an “S” shadow is visible under the “D.”
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Value Range: $400–$5,000.
1950-S/D Overmintmark Quarter – Up to $4,000
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Mint: San Francisco (S over D)
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Why It’s Rare: The opposite of the 1950-D/S coin—another striking mint mark mistake.
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Identification Tip: Look for a faint “D” under the “S.”
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Value Range: $300–$4,000.
1964-D Doubled Die Reverse Quarter – Up to $7,000
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Mint: Denver
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Why It’s Rare: A dramatic doubled die on the reverse lettering “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA.”
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Identification Tip: Doubling is visible on “QUARTER DOLLAR.”
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Value Range: $500–$7,000 depending on grade.
1970-S Proof Quarter (Struck on 1941 Canadian Coin) – Up to $35,000
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Mint: San Francisco
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Why It’s Rare: A rare minting mistake—proof quarter struck on a silver Canadian coin.
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Identification Tip: The coin’s surface may reveal remnants of the Canadian design under the U.S. strike.
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Value Range: $25,000–$35,000.
1983-P Washington Quarter (No Mint Mark) – Up to $1,500
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Mint: Philadelphia
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Why It’s Rare: Most coins that year were poorly struck; finding one in top condition is very unusual.
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Identification Tip: Lacks a mint mark entirely—check below Washington’s neck.
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Value Range: $100–$1,500.
2004-D Wisconsin “Extra Leaf” Quarter – Up to $2,500
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Mint: Denver
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Why It’s Rare: A die flaw created an extra “leaf” on the corn husk—two varieties exist: “High Leaf” and “Low Leaf.”
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Identification Tip: Examine the corn design on the reverse side.
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Value Range: $150–$2,500 depending on condition and type.
How to Identify a Rare Washington Quarter
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Check the Mint Mark: Found on the reverse (pre-1968) or obverse (post-1968) of the coin.
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Look for Errors: Doubling, missing mint marks, or unusual designs.
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Assess Condition: Coins graded “MS” (Mint State) or “Proof” are worth significantly more.
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Use Magnification: Subtle differences can mean thousands of dollars in value.
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Verify with Experts: Certified grading services like PCGS or NGC can confirm authenticity and condition.
Final Thoughts
Washington quarters are more than pocket change—they’re pieces of American history, and in rare cases, hidden treasures worth tens of thousands of dollars. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a curious beginner, always check your change carefully. You might just find a rare quarter worth a small fortune waiting in your wallet or coin jar.
FAQ 9 Rare Washington Quarters Worth Up to $50,700
Q: Can rare Washington quarters still be found in circulation?
A: Yes, though rare, certain varieties like the 2004-D “Extra Leaf” quarter have appeared in pocket change.
Q: What’s the most valuable Washington quarter?
A: The 1932-D can reach up to $50,700 in pristine condition.
Q: Where can I sell a valuable quarter?
A: Through reputable auction houses, certified coin dealers, or online marketplaces like Heritage Auctions and Stack’s Bowers.
Q: Are proof quarters worth collecting?
A: Absolutely. Proof quarters, especially with minting errors, can appreciate significantly in value over time.
