The Washington quarter has been part of everyday American life since 1932, and billions have been minted over the decades. Most are worth only face value—but a small number of rare Washington quarters have sold for up to $35,000, making them some of the most surprising modern coin finds.
Collectors in 2026 continue searching coin rolls, old collections, and inherited change for these hidden treasures. Here’s what makes a Washington quarter valuable—and which one you should be looking for.
Why Some Washington Quarters Are Worth Thousands
A Washington quarter becomes highly valuable when it has:
- Extremely low mintage or survival rate
- A major minting error or variety
- High silver content
- Exceptional condition and certification
Even small differences can mean the difference between 25 cents and tens of thousands of dollars.
The Washington Quarter Linked to the $35,000 Value
1932-D Washington Quarter
This is the quarter most commonly associated with $35,000 valuations.
Why It’s Rare
- First year of Washington quarter production
- Very low mintage at the Denver Mint
- Heavy circulation reduced surviving examples
Value Range (2026)
- Circulated: $100 – $1,000
- Mint State (MS65+): $25,000 – $35,000+
💡 High-grade examples are rare and highly competitive at auction.
Other Valuable Washington Quarters to Watch For
1. 1932-S Washington Quarter
- Low mintage similar to the 1932-D
Value:
👉 $75 – $30,000+
2. 1943 Washington Quarter (Doubled Die Obverse)
- Visible doubling on date and lettering
Value:
👉 $500 – $20,000+
3. 1950-D Over S Washington Quarter
- Mint mark error variety
Value:
👉 $150 – $5,000+
4. Silver Washington Quarters in MS67+
High-grade silver quarters (1932–1964) can be extremely valuable.
Value:
👉 $3,000 – $25,000+
5. Major Mint Error Washington Quarters
Includes:
- Off-center strikes
- Wrong-planchet errors
- Double strikes
Value:
👉 $1,000 – $100,000+
Washington Quarter Value Chart (2026)
| Year | Variety | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|
| 1932-D | Key Date | $100 – $35,000 |
| 1932-S | Key Date | $75 – $30,000 |
| 1943 | Doubled Die | $500 – $20,000 |
| 1950-D | Over S | $150 – $5,000 |
| 1932–64 | MS67+ Silver | $3,000 – $25,000 |
| Various | Major Errors | $1,000 – $100,000 |
How to Identify a Valuable Washington Quarter
Quick Identification Checklist
- Check the date (1932 is critical)
- Look for a mint mark (D or S)
- Check the edge (solid silver = pre-1965)
- Use magnification to spot errors
- Never clean the coin
Can These Quarters Still Be Found in Circulation?
Yes—but rarely.
Many high-value Washington quarters have been discovered:
- In inherited coin collections
- In old change jars
- In estate sales
- Occasionally in bank rolls
The odds are low, but collectors continue searching because valuable discoveries still happen.
What to Do If You Think You Found One
- Handle by the edges only
- Place in a non-PVC holder
- Photograph both sides clearly
- Seek professional evaluation
- Submit to PCGS or NGC for certification
Certification is essential for five-figure values.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is there really a $35,000 Washington quarter?
Yes. High-grade 1932-D Washington quarters have sold in this range.
Are all 1932 quarters valuable?
Only those with D or S mint marks carry high premiums.
Are Washington quarters still silver?
Quarters minted before 1965 contain 90% silver.
Should I check modern quarters?
Yes. Some modern error quarters can also be valuable.
Does cleaning ruin value?
Yes. Cleaning can destroy collector value instantly.
Final Thoughts
The Washington quarter proves that everyday coins can still hide remarkable value. While most are common, rare issues like the 1932-D quarter continue to command prices up to $35,000—and they’re still being found in old collections today.