The Washington Quarter, introduced in 1932 and continuing through today, holds numerous valuable treasures that excite collectors and reward careful observers. While most quarters in circulation are worth their face value, certain dates, mint marks, and varieties can command impressive premiums. Let’s explore the most valuable Washington Quarters and understand what makes them special.
Key Dates and Rarities
1932-D and 1932-S The very first year of Washington Quarter production yielded two significant rarities. The Denver and San Francisco mints produced limited quantities, with mintages of 436,800 and 408,000 respectively. These low numbers make the 1932-D and 1932-S among the most valuable regular-issue Washington Quarters.
Current Market Values for 1932-D:
Good (G-4): $175-200
Fine (F-12): $250-300
Very Fine (VF-20): $400-450
Extremely Fine (EF-40): $650-750
About Uncirculated (AU-50): $1,200-1,400
Mint State (MS-60): $2,500-3,000
Mint State (MS-65): $15,000-20,000
Current Market Values for 1932-S:
Good (G-4): $150-175
Fine (F-12): $200-250
Very Fine (VF-20): $350-400
Extremely Fine (EF-40): $600-700
About Uncirculated (AU-50): $1,000-1,200
Mint State (MS-60): $2,000-2,500
Mint State (MS-65): $12,000-15,000
1934 Doubled Die Obverse This dramatic doubled die variety shows strong doubling on LIBERTY and IN GOD WE TRUST. While not as well-known as some other doubled dies, it commands strong premiums when found.
Current Market Values:
Very Fine (VF-20): $750-1,000
Extremely Fine (EF-40): $2,000-2,500
About Uncirculated (AU-50): $4,000-5,000
Mint State (MS-60): $7,500-10,000
1937 Double Die Obverse Another notable doubled die variety showing strong doubling on the obverse. These are particularly valuable in higher grades.
Current Market Values:
Very Fine (VF-20): $500-750
Extremely Fine (EF-40): $1,500-2,000
About Uncirculated (AU-50): $3,000-4,000
Mint State (MS-60): $6,000-8,000
1942-D Double Die Obverse This variety shows prominent doubling on the date and motto. While less dramatic than some other doubled dies, it remains highly collectible.
Current Market Values:
Very Fine (VF-20): $400-500
Extremely Fine (EF-40): $800-1,000
About Uncirculated (AU-50): $1,500-2,000
Mint State (MS-60): $3,000-4,000
Condition Rarity Stars
Some dates become extremely valuable in high grades, even though they might be relatively common in circulated condition:
1936-D In MS-65 and above, this date becomes surprisingly scarce:
Mint State (MS-65): $2,000-2,500
Mint State (MS-66): $4,000-5,000
Mint State (MS-67): $15,000-20,000
1940-D Another condition rarity that commands strong premiums in gem grades:
Mint State (MS-65): $1,500-2,000
Mint State (MS-66): $3,000-4,000
Mint State (MS-67): $12,000-15,000
Silver vs. Clad Composition
Pre-1965 Washington Quarters were struck in 90% silver, while those from 1965 onward used a copper-nickel clad composition. This creates two distinct categories for collectors:
Silver Quarters (1932-1964):
Base silver value typically $4-5 depending on silver prices
Key dates and high grades command significant premiums
Even common dates in high grades can be valuable
Clad Quarters (1965-present):
Most are worth face value unless in exceptional condition
Some varieties and errors can be valuable
State quarters (1999-2008) with errors can command premiums
Notable Errors and Varieties
1943 Double Die Obverse Shows significant doubling on the date and motto:
Very Fine (VF-20): $300-400
Extremely Fine (EF-40): $600-800
About Uncirculated (AU-50): $1,200-1,500
Mint State (MS-60): $2,500-3,000
1950-D/S Overdate One of the most dramatic overmint marks in the series:
Very Fine (VF-20): $500-750
Extremely Fine (EF-40): $1,000-1,500
About Uncirculated (AU-50): $2,000-2,500
Mint State (MS-60): $4,000-5,000
Collecting Strategies
Building a valuable Washington Quarter collection requires knowledge and patience. Here are some key strategies:
Focus on Condition
High-grade examples command the strongest premiums
Original mint luster is highly desirable
Avoid cleaned or damaged coins
Authentication is Crucial
Many valuable varieties have been counterfeited
Professional grading recommended for expensive pieces
Study authentic examples thoroughly
Understanding Strike Quality
Well-struck coins command premiums
Look for full head detail on Washington
Strong strike on eagle’s feathers adds value
Preservation Tips
To maintain value, proper storage is essential:
Use inert holders or albums
Avoid PVC-containing materials
Store in climate-controlled environment
Never clean or attempt to improve appearance
Market Trends and Investment Potential
The market for rare Washington Quarters remains strong, particularly for:
Key dates in high grades
Major varieties and errors
Original, untoned examples
Coins with CAC approval
Factors Affecting Value
Several factors influence Washington Quarter values:
Date and Mint Mark
Condition and Strike Quality
Original Mint Luster
Toning (if present)
Population Data
Market Demand
Authentication Considerations
When dealing with valuable Washington Quarters:
Study diagnostics of genuine pieces
Use reputable authentication services
Be particularly cautious with key dates
Check population reports
Future Outlook
The market for rare Washington Quarters appears stable with potential for growth:
Key dates continue to appreciate
High-grade examples remain in demand
New collectors entering the market
Strong interest in variety collecting
Building a Collection
For those interested in valuable Washington Quarters:
Start with common dates to learn grading
Study authentic examples of valuable varieties
Build relationships with reputable dealers
Join numismatic organizations for education
A Legacy of Value – Valuable Washington Quarters worth
Washington Quarters continue to offer opportunities for collectors and investors alike. Whether searching through circulation finds or pursuing finest-known examples, the series provides numerous possibilities for discovering valuable coins. Understanding what makes certain dates, varieties, and conditions valuable helps collectors make informed decisions in building their collections.