Quarters are a staple in American currency, but some hold far greater value than others. While most quarters in circulation are worth just 25 cents, certain rare editions, often due to historical significance, minting errors, or limited production runs, can fetch thousands—or even hundreds of thousands—of dollars at auction.
Coin collectors around the world eagerly seek these elusive gems. Below, we highlight the nine most valuable American quarters still in circulation, which are worth a lot more than their face value.
1. 1932-D Washington Quarter
The 1932-D Washington Quarter is one of the most valuable quarters in circulation. Its scarcity makes it a collector’s dream. This coin, which was minted in Denver, has a very low mintage, contributing to its rarity. If you’re fortunate enough to find one in excellent condition, it could be worth up to $143,750. In 2008, one of these coins was sold at auction for this impressive amount. Given its historical significance and rarity, it is considered a must-have for serious coin collectors.
For more details on the history of this coin, visit US Mint – 1932 Quarter Information.
2. 1982-P Washington Quarter (Regular Strike)
The 1982-P Washington Quarter is another rare find. Although the U.S. Mint typically produces millions of quarters annually, this particular year saw an unusually low mintage, especially in the Philadelphia mint. Coins from this year in uncirculated condition can fetch around $10,200. In 2019, one of these quarters sold for this price, making it a valuable asset for numismatists.
For additional information on coin values, check out PCGS – Coin Value Lookup.
3. 1965 Type 2 Clad Washington Quarter Business Strike
The 1965 Type 2 Clad Washington Quarter is highly sought after due to its unique composition and limited production. It was the first year that quarters were struck in copper-nickel clad, and the production was not as high as other years. As a result, well-preserved examples of this quarter can fetch around $12,650 at auction. This quarter is particularly popular among collectors for its rarity and distinctive look.
For more details, visit NGC – 1965 Quarter Overview.
4. 1942 Proof Washington Quarter
Proof coins are specially minted for collectors, with the 1942 Proof Washington Quarter being one of the most valuable in this category. These coins were struck using polished dies, giving them a sharp, mirror-like finish. In excellent condition, the 1942 Proof Washington Quarter has been sold for $16,800 at auctions. Collectors highly value this coin for its beauty and rarity.
To explore more about proof coins, visit the American Numismatic Association.
5. 1962-D Silver Washington Quarter (Regular Strike)
The 1962-D Silver Washington Quarter is particularly prized because it contains 90% silver, adding to its intrinsic value. In 2012, one such quarter sold for $18,400. The coin is also part of the series that transitioned from silver to copper-nickel-clad coins, marking a significant period in U.S. coinage history.
For further reading, visit the United States Mint for updates on silver coins.
6. 1976-S Silver Washington Quarter Business Strike
As part of the Bicentennial series, the 1976-S Silver Washington Quarter is a special edition coin that commemorates the 200th anniversary of the United States. While many of these coins were produced, the silver versions are much rarer and more valuable. A well-preserved example can be worth around $19,200. In June 2019, a 1976-S quarter was sold for this price, making it a highly collectible item.
Learn more about the Bicentennial coinage at the Bureau of Engraving and Printing.
7. 1943 DDO (Doubled Die Obverse) Washington Quarter Business Strike
Minting errors can make coins extremely valuable, and the 1943 DDO Washington Quarter is a prime example. Featuring a doubled die error on the obverse, this quarter is highly collectible. Coins with this error have been sold for as much as $22,250 at auction. This error occurred when the dies were improperly aligned during production, resulting in the doubled image.
For more on minting errors, check out Error Coin Information.
8. 1963-D Silver Washington Quarter (Regular Strike)
Another silver quarter from the 1960s, the 1963-D Silver Washington Quarter is worth significantly more than its face value due to its silver content and low mintage. In 2022, one of these quarters sold for $24,000. The demand for silver quarters, combined with their historical value, keeps them in high demand among collectors.
For more on silver coin values, visit Numismatic Guaranty Corporation.
9. 1964-D Silver Washington Quarter (Regular Strike)
The 1964-D Silver Washington Quarter is another valuable coin due to its silver content and the fact that it was minted in the year before the U.S. stopped producing silver quarters. A well-preserved example of this coin can be worth up to $38,400. This coin was sold in a 2021 auction for a price well above its face value, showing just how valuable rare silver quarters can be.
For more on coin collections, check out CoinWeek.
Conclusion:
American quarters come in a variety of designs, but it’s the rare, limited-production, and error coins that really stand out in the world of numismatics. While most quarters are worth just 25 cents, these nine stand as prime examples of how rarity and history can significantly boost a coin’s value. For collectors, these coins represent a chance to own a piece of U.S. history, and they offer an exciting opportunity for anyone interested in the world of coin collecting.
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