Coin collecting offers a fascinating glimpse into history, with some quarters becoming valuable due to their rarity, minting errors, or historical significance. Among them, the 1976 Bicentennial Quarter with a double die obverse stands out, fetching nearly $25,000 under the right conditions.
But that’s just the tip of the iceberg—there are other quarters worth over $1,000 that are also highly sought after by collectors. Let’s take a closer look at these six valuable quarters, including rare Washington Quarters and unique mint errors.
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1976 Bicentennial
The 1976 Bicentennial Quarter, minted to honor the 200th anniversary of the United States’ independence, is a collector’s favorite. However, not all Bicentennial Quarters are created equal. A rare variety featuring a double die obverse—a minting error where elements like the date or motto appear doubled—can increase the value of this coin to nearly $25,000. The doubling effect is caused by a misalignment during the minting process, making these coins rare and highly valuable. In addition to its error, the historical significance of this quarter makes it a prized item for serious collectors.
Finding one of these coins in mint condition, graded MS-65 or higher, can significantly elevate its value. For collectors, it represents not just a piece of American history but also a lucrative investment.
1932-D Washington
The 1932-D Washington Quarter is an essential addition to any serious collection of U.S. quarters. With a mintage of only 436,800 coins, it’s one of the rarest Washington quarters produced. This quarter marks the first year of the Washington Quarter series, making it a key historical piece. Its rarity, combined with its historical significance, drives its value above $1,000 for well-preserved examples.
Collectors prize the 1932-D not just for its scarcity but for its role in marking the start of the Washington Quarter series. Coins in good condition, especially those graded MS-65 or higher, can fetch significantly higher prices due to their historical importance.
1932-S Washington
Similar to the Denver-minted version, the 1932-S Washington Quarter is another highly valuable coin. With only 408,000 coins produced, it’s even rarer than the 1932-D. This quarter also commemorates the 200th anniversary of George Washington’s birth, adding to its collectible appeal. Coins in fine condition can easily exceed $1,000, with higher grades commanding even steeper prices.
Collectors view the 1932-S as a cornerstone of the Washington Quarter series, and its low mintage makes it a must-have for anyone focusing on U.S. numismatics.
1942-S Silver Washington
The 1942-S Silver Washington Quarter is another valuable coin, minted during the World War II era. With its 90% silver composition and relatively low mintage, it stands out as a collectible item. Quarters from this period are already desirable due to their silver content, but the 1942-S, with its scarcity, is even more sought after by collectors. In fine to very fine condition, this quarter typically sells for well over $1,000, with higher-grade examples fetching significantly more.
Collectors value the 1942-S not just for its silver content but for the historical context in which it was minted, making it both a historical artifact and a valuable collectible.
1950-D/S Overmintmark
Mint errors always capture the attention of collectors, and the 1950-D/S Washington Quarter is no exception. This coin features a unique minting anomaly where a D mintmark was stamped over an S mintmark. These types of overmintmark errors are highly sought after because they offer a rare glimpse into the minting process, where mistakes can lead to significant value increases.
A well-preserved example of this coin can exceed $1,000, with the price rising for coins in higher grades. For error coin collectors, the 1950-D/S is an essential addition, representing both rarity and a unique minting history.
1964-D Double Die Reverse
The 1964-D Washington Quarter with a double die reverse is a modern rarity that can command prices over $1,000. This mint error results in doubling on the reverse side of the coin, especially visible in the phrase “E PLURIBUS UNUM.” As the last year that quarters were struck in 90% silver, the 1964-D is highly desirable, not just for its error but also for its silver content.
This quarter appeals to both investors and collectors, combining the value of precious metal with the intrigue of a mint error. High-grade examples of this coin can fetch much more than the typical $1,000, making it a prized possession for any collection.
| Quarter | Key Feature | Approx. Value |
|---|---|---|
| 1976 Bicentennial Quarter | Double die obverse, historical significance | Nearly $25,000 |
| 1932-D Washington Quarter | Low mintage (436,800) | Over $1,000 |
| 1932-S Washington Quarter | Low mintage (408,000) | Over $1,000 |
| 1942-S Silver Washington Quarter | Silver content, low mintage | Over $1,000 |
| 1950-D/S Overmintmark Washington Quarter | Mint error (D over S) | Over $1,000 |
| 1964-D Double Die Reverse Washington Quarter | Double die error on reverse side, 90% silver | Over $1,000 |
While quarters are often overlooked as simple pocket change, certain rare varieties are worth much more than their face value. The 1976 Bicentennial Quarter with its double die obverse stands out with its near $25,000 valuation, while other rare Washington Quarters, from the early 1930s to the mid-20th century, can each fetch more than $1,000. Whether due to mint errors or low production numbers, these coins are highly sought after by collectors, combining history, rarity, and significant financial value.
If you happen to have an old quarter collection or come across any of these specific coins, it’s worth checking their condition and errors—you might just be holding onto a small fortune.
FAQs
What makes the Bicentennial Quarter worth so much?
A double die obverse error makes it rare and valuable.
How rare is the 1932-D Washington Quarter?
With only 436,800 minted, it’s a rare find in good condition.
What is special about the 1950-D/S Overmintmark Quarter?
A unique mint error where the D mintmark was stamped over an S mintmark.
Why is the 1964-D Washington Quarter valuable?
It has a double die reverse and was minted in 90% silver.
How much can the 1942-S Silver Washington Quarter be worth?
Well-preserved examples often exceed $1,000 due to their silver content and scarcity.
