Washington quarters have been part of everyday American life since 1932, but in 2026, these familiar coins are commanding renewed attention from collectors. While most are worth only face value or silver melt, certain rare Washington quarters now sell for thousands—or even tens of thousands—of dollars.
This guide explores the most valuable Washington quarters, why their prices are rising in 2026, and how to identify one before it slips back into circulation.
Why Washington Quarter Values Are Rising in 2026
Several market forces are driving prices higher:
- Strong collector demand for classic U.S. coinage
- Rising silver prices supporting pre-1965 quarters
- Increased interest in mint errors and varieties
- Registry-set competition for top-grade coins
- Fewer high-grade survivors after decades of circulation
Together, these trends are making rare Washington quarters more valuable than ever.
Most Valuable Washington Quarters to Watch in 2026
1. 1932-D Washington Quarter
The 1932-D is one of the key dates in the entire series.
Why It’s Valuable
- First year of issue
- Extremely low mintage (~436,800)
- Scarce in high grades
2026 Value Range:
👉 $1,000 – $35,000+
2. 1932-S Washington Quarter
Even rarer in high condition than its Denver counterpart.
2026 Value Range:
👉 $1,200 – $30,000+
3. 1943 Doubled Die Obverse Quarter
A famous variety showing clear doubling on:
- “LIBERTY”
- “IN GOD WE TRUST”
2026 Value Range:
👉 $5,000 – $40,000+
4. 1950-D/S Overmintmark Quarter
A mint mark variety created when:
- A Denver “D” was punched over a San Francisco “S”
2026 Value Range:
👉 $1,000 – $12,000+
5. 1965 Silver Transitional Error Quarter
Although quarters were supposed to be clad after 1964, a few were struck on 90% silver planchets.
2026 Value Range:
👉 $8,000 – $25,000+
6. High-Grade Silver Washington Quarters (MS67+)
Common dates become rare when preserved in near-perfect condition.
2026 Value Range:
👉 $500 – $20,000+
Washington Quarter Value Chart (2026 Estimates)
| Year | Variety | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|
| 1932-D | Regular Issue | $1,000 – $35,000 |
| 1932-S | Regular Issue | $1,200 – $30,000 |
| 1943 | Doubled Die | $5,000 – $40,000 |
| 1950 | D/S Overmintmark | $1,000 – $12,000 |
| 1965 | Silver Error | $8,000 – $25,000 |
| Pre-1965 | MS67+ Silver | $500 – $20,000 |
How to Identify a Rare Washington Quarter
Collector Identification Checklist
- Check the date
- Focus on 1932, 1943, 1950, and 1965
- Look for a mint mark
- D or S can significantly increase value
- Inspect the edge
- Solid silver edge = pre-1965 silver
- Use magnification (10×)
- Look for doubling or mint mark anomalies
- Weigh the coin
- Silver quarter ≈ 6.25 g
- Never clean the coin
Are Rare Washington Quarters Still Found in Circulation?
Yes—but rarely.
Some valuable quarters:
- Entered circulation decades ago
- Came from broken collections
- Were overlooked by non-collectors
Collectors still report finds through:
- Coin roll hunting
- Estate cleanouts
- Old jars and drawers
What to Do If You Find a Valuable Quarter
- Handle only by the edges
- Place it in a protective holder
- Avoid cleaning or polishing
- Get professional authentication
- Consider grading with PCGS or NGC
Certification is critical for coins worth thousands.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Are Washington quarters a good investment in 2026?
High-grade and key-date Washington quarters remain strong long-term collectibles, especially silver and rare varieties.
What is the rarest Washington quarter?
The 1932-D and 1932-S are the key regular-issue rarities.
Are all pre-1965 Washington quarters valuable?
All are silver, but most are valued primarily for melt unless in high grade or a rare variety.
Can cleaning increase a quarter’s value?
No. Cleaning almost always reduces value significantly.
Where should I sell a rare Washington quarter?
After grading, major auction houses or reputable coin dealers are best.
Final Thoughts
In 2026, rare Washington quarters continue to prove that everyday coins can hold extraordinary value. While most quarters are common, key dates, mint errors, and pristine silver examples are setting impressive prices.