The Washington quarter, first minted in 1932, has become a collector’s favorite, and some of these quarters are worth a fortune. Certain rare varieties and error coins have skyrocketed in value over the years, attracting the attention of numismatists worldwide. Here are the top four most valuable Washington quarters dollars that could fetch you a hefty price.
1932-D Washington Quarter
The 1932-D Washington quarter is a classic example of a rare and valuable coin. This quarter was part of the first-year mintage of Washington quarters, making it especially desirable to collectors.
Produced in Denver, only 436,800 of these quarters were minted, making it one of the lowest mintages in the Washington quarters series. In excellent condition, a 1932-D can sell for thousands of dollars, with prices reaching over $100,000 for the highest-graded specimens.
1932-S Washington Quarter
Alongside the 1932-D, the 1932-S Washington quarters is also incredibly rare. Minted in San Francisco, this quarter had a low mintage of 408,000, making it slightly rarer than the Denver-minted version. Due to its scarcity and the fact that it’s from the series’ first year, the 1932-S is highly sought after by collectors.
A well-preserved 1932-S can sell for significant amounts at auction, with high-grade coins fetching tens of thousands of dollars.
1950-D/S Washington Quarter
The 1950-D/S Washington quarter is an intriguing coin due to a unique mint error. This quarter was struck in Denver, but an “S” mint mark from San Francisco was mistakenly punched underneath the “D” mint mark. This rare mint error, known as an “over-mintmark,” adds tremendous value to the coin. Collectors highly prize error coins like this, and a 1950-D/S in top condition can command prices upwards of $10,000.
1943 Doubled Die Obverse Washington Quarter
The 1943 Doubled Die Obverse Washington quarters are another rarity with a significant error. This coin displays a doubling on the obverse side, particularly in the inscriptions “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST.” Such doubling errors make this quarter unique, and collectors actively seek these coins.
In top-notch condition, a 1943 Doubled Die Obverse quarter can sell for thousands of dollars, making it one of the most valuable Washington quarters.
| Coin Name | Year | Mint Location | Key Feature | Estimated Value ($) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1932-D Washington Quarter | 1932 | Denver | Low mintage | Up to 100,000 |
| 1932-S Washington Quarter | 1932 | San Francisco | Extremely low mintage | Up to 90,000 |
| 1950-D/S Washington Quarter | 1950 | Denver/San Francisco | Over-mintmark error | Up to 10,000 |
| 1943 Doubled Die Obverse | 1943 | Philadelphia | Doubled die error | Up to 15,000 |
These rare Washington quarters are highly valued for their historical significance, unique errors, and low mintages. Each coin tells a unique story, making it a prized addition to any collection. If you happen to find one of these coins in your possession, it could be worth a considerable amount of money.
FAQs
What makes the 1932-D Washington quarter so valuable?
The 1932-D Washington quarter is valuable due to its low mintage and historical significance as part of the first-year production of Washington quarters.
Why is the 1950-D/S Washington quarter unique?
This coin has an “over-mintmark” error, with an “S” underneath the “D” mint mark, which is highly desirable among collectors.
How can I identify a 1943 Doubled Die Obverse quarter?
Look for noticeable doubling on the obverse side, especially in the inscriptions “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST.”
Are these rare Washington quarters still in circulation?
It’s rare to find these valuable quarters in circulation today, but they may be available in collections or at auctions.
How should I store a rare Washington quarter to preserve its value?
Store your rare coin in a protective holder, avoid direct handling, and keep it in a stable environment to maintain its condition and value.