Ever wondered if that spare change jingling in your pocket could be worth more than just its face value? Surprisingly, some U.S. quarter coins are highly sought after by collectors and can fetch hundreds, even thousands of dollars. These rare quarters often have unique characteristics, minting errors, or were produced in limited numbers, making them valuable pieces of history. Discover which quarters to look for and how to turn your spare change into a small fortune, potentially.
1932-D Washington Quarter
The 1932-D Washington quarter holds a significant place in numismatic history as it was part of the inaugural year of the Washington quarter series. Its low mintage of only 436,800 coins, coupled with the fact that many weren't saved during the Great Depression, contributes to its rarity today. To identify this valuable coin, look for the "1932" date on the obverse (front) and the "D" mintmark (indicating the Denver Mint) on the reverse (back), positioned just below the eagle. Depending on its condition, a well-worn 1932-D quarter can be worth anywhere from $100 to $500, while high-grade examples can command prices of $6,000 or even more at auction.
1932-S Washington Quarter
Another key rarity from the early years of the Washington quarter series is the 1932-S quarter. Minted in San Francisco with an even lower production number of just 408,000, this coin is highly prized by collectors. Similar to the 1932-D, identifying it involves checking for the "1932" date on the front and the "S" mintmark (for the San Francisco Mint) located below the eagle on the back. Circulated versions of the 1932-S quarter can sell for $150 to $800, but uncirculated specimens can reach values exceeding $5,000.
1943-S Washington Quarter Doubled Die Obverse
The 1943-S Washington quarter with a doubled die obverse error is a fascinating and valuable find. This error occurred due to a slight misalignment during the minting process, resulting in a doubled appearance of the text and design elements on the obverse (front) of the coin. To identify this error, carefully examine the words "LIBERTY" and "IN GOD WE TRUST." If you notice a distinct doubling of these letters, you might have a valuable error coin. The value of a 1943-S doubled die obverse quarter ranges from around $500 to over $10,000 for examples in high grades.
1950-D/S Overmintmark Quarter
The 1950-D/S overmintmark quarter is another intriguing error coin sought after by collectors. This error occurred when the Denver Mint ("D") accidentally stamped its mintmark over an existing San Francisco Mint ("S") mark. Identifying this rare quarter requires a keen eye and potentially a magnifying glass. Inspect the mintmark on the reverse (back) of the coin. If you can see traces of an "S" underneath the "D," you have likely found a valuable 1950-D/S quarter. These coins can be worth $300 or more in worn condition and can reach upwards of $3,500 in higher grades.
1965 Silver Quarter Error
In 1965, the composition of U.S. quarters changed from 90% silver to a copper-nickel blend. However, a small number of 1965 quarters were mistakenly struck on leftover silver planchets, making them exceptionally rare and valuable. Identifying a 1965 silver quarter error involves checking its weight. A standard 1965 quarter weighs approximately 5.67 grams, while the rare silver version will weigh around 6.25 grams. Using a digital scale can help you identify this valuable error, which can sell for $1,000 to $10,000 depending on its condition.
Finding Valuable Quarter Coins and Sell
If you discover a particularly valuable quarter, consider presenting it at a numismatic coin show or auction, where serious collectors gather. By exploring which coins to look for and understanding the best avenues for selling, you could indeed transform seemingly insignificant loose change into a surprising financial gain.