Washington quarters may look ordinary, but a small number of rare dates and mint errors are worth far more than 25 cents. In fact, some Washington quarters regularly sell for over $1,000, and a few exceptional examples bring tens of thousands of dollars at auction.
Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just checking spare change, this guide reveals seven rare Washington quarters that could turn an overlooked coin into a valuable discovery.
Why Some Washington Quarters Are Worth Big Money
The Washington quarter debuted in 1932 and has been minted ever since. While billions exist, value increases dramatically when a coin has:
- Low mintage
- Rare mint mark
- Minting error or variety
- Silver composition
- Exceptional condition
When these factors combine, collector demand skyrockets.
7 Rare Washington Quarters Worth Serious Money
1. 1932-D Washington Quarter
One of the most famous key dates in U.S. coinage.
Why It’s Valuable
- First year of issue
- Very low mintage (~436,800)
- Scarce in high grades
Value:
👉 $1,000 – $35,000+
2. 1932-S Washington Quarter
Even tougher to find in high condition than the Denver issue.
Value:
👉 $1,200 – $30,000+
3. 1943 Doubled Die Obverse Quarter
This rare variety shows strong doubling on:
- “LIBERTY”
- “IN GOD WE TRUST”
Value:
👉 $5,000 – $40,000+
4. 1950-D/S Overmintmark Quarter
A mint mark error where:
- A Denver “D” was struck over a San Francisco “S”
Value:
👉 $1,000 – $12,000+
5. 1965 Silver Transitional Error Quarter
Quarters were supposed to be clad in 1965, but a few were struck on 90% silver planchets.
Value:
👉 $8,000 – $25,000+
6. 1940s–1964 Silver Washington Quarters (High Grade)
Common dates become rare when preserved in near-perfect condition.
Value:
👉 $1,000 – $20,000+
7. Major Mint Error Washington Quarters
Includes:
- Off-center strikes
- Wrong planchet errors
- Broadstrikes
Value:
👉 $500 – $15,000+
Washington Quarter Value Chart (High-Value Examples)
| Year | Variety | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|
| 1932-D | Key Date | $1,000 – $35,000 |
| 1932-S | Key Date | $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 |
| 1940s–1964 | MS67+ Silver | $1,000 – $20,000 |
| Various | Major Errors | $500 – $15,000 |
How to Identify a Valuable Washington Quarter
Quick Identification Checklist
- Check the date – especially 1932, 1943, 1950, and 1965
- Look for a mint mark (D or S)
- Examine the edge – solid silver means pre-1965
- Use magnification for doubling or mint mark errors
- Weigh the coin – silver quarters ≈ 6.25 g
- Never clean the coin
Are These Quarters Still in Circulation?
Yes—though extremely rare.
Some valuable Washington quarters:
- Were unknowingly spent decades ago
- Came from broken collections
- Sat unnoticed in jars or drawers
Collectors still find rare quarters through coin roll hunting and estate cleanouts.
What to Do If You Find a Rare Quarter
- Handle it by the edges only
- Store it in a protective holder
- Avoid cleaning or polishing
- Get professional authentication
- Consider grading with PCGS or NGC
Certified coins command the highest prices.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Are all Washington quarters worth more than face value?
No. Most modern quarters are common and worth 25 cents.
What is the rarest Washington quarter?
The 1932-D and 1932-S are the key regular-issue rarities.
Are silver Washington quarters valuable?
Yes, all pre-1965 quarters contain silver, but high-grade examples are worth far more.
Can a quarter really be worth over $1,000?
Absolutely. Several Washington quarter varieties regularly exceed that mark.
Should I sell a rare quarter immediately?
No. Authentication and grading should come first.
Final Thoughts
Rare Washington quarters prove that big money can come from small change. While most quarters are common, key dates, silver coins, and mint errors continue to bring impressive prices.
Before spending old change or ignoring inherited coins, take a closer look—you might already own a Washington quarter worth over $1,000.