Not all treasures come in chests — some might be hiding in your pocket change. That’s especially true for these incredibly valuable quarters that, despite being circulated, are worth far more than 25 cents. Let’s dive into some of the most exciting finds you could come across.
2019-W and 2020-W Washington Quarters
In a twist that thrilled collectors, the U.S. Mint released a special set of quarters in 2019 and 2020 from the West Point Mint — marked with a “W.” These weren’t sold in sets or online, but quietly slipped into regular circulation.
With only 2 million of each design minted, these W-quarters are considered modern rarities. Though circulated examples don’t have assigned values from PCGS yet, their low mintage makes them potential future stars in the collector market.
1932-D Washington Quarter
The 1932-D quarter is a big deal — it kicked off the Washington quarter series and had an exceptionally low mintage of just 436,800 coins. You can spot it by the “D” mintmark on the reverse side, above “ER” in “QUARTER.”
Even in rough shape, these coins command serious value. A coin graded 2 is worth about $70, while a higher-quality example graded 55 could fetch up to $525. Ironically, the rarest of the rare — those in grade 1 — are valued even higher at $225.
1932-S Washington Quarter
With only 408,000 minted, the 1932-S holds the title for lowest-minted Washington quarter. Spot the “S” mintmark near the laurel wreath on the reverse — that little letter can mean big money.
Even a worn-out 1932-S graded 2 is worth $85, and better-preserved examples rise steeply in value. Coins in “about uncirculated” condition (graded 55) can be worth around $285 or more.
1937-S Washington Quarter
Coming in third for lowest mintage in the Washington quarter series is the 1937-S, minted in San Francisco. It’s less valuable than the 1932 quarters but still one to watch.
Even a coin graded 20 is worth $16, and at grade 58, it climbs to around $165. It’s the kind of coin collectors are happy to scoop up in almost any condition.
2004-D Wisconsin Quarter – Extra Leaf Low
The 50 States quarter series introduced some fun surprises, and the 2004-D Wisconsin quarter is a prime example. Some coins have an extra leaf on the corn husk — a rare minting error.
The “Low Leaf” version shows the leaf pointing downward toward the cheese wheel. While millions of Wisconsin quarters were made, these errors are far fewer. A coin graded 30 could be worth $38, and that jumps to $80 if it’s graded 55.
2004-D Wisconsin Quarter – Extra Leaf High
Slightly rarer than the Low Leaf version, the “High Leaf” quarter features an extra leaf pointing upward, behind another leaf on the corn design.
Circulated versions are still worth a premium. A grade 30 coin could earn $45, and higher grades near 55 can be valued around $105. These modern errors are hot commodities among state quarter fans.
1934 Washington Quarter – Double Die Obverse
If you spot doubling on “IN GOD WE TRUST” or “LIBERTY” on a 1934 Washington quarter, you may have a Double Die Obverse (DDO) — and that’s a big deal.
A coin graded 2 can start around $45, but an “extremely fine” 45-grade coin fetches $235. Near uncirculated examples (grade 55) can go as high as $440. The doubling is often visible to the naked eye — no loupe required!
1943 Washington Quarter – Double Die Obverse
The 1943 DDO quarter is rarer than its 1934 counterpart and boasts an even stronger market value. Look for obvious doubling on the motto, “LIBERTY,” and the date.
A coin graded 3 can start at $135, but a fine-grade 15 is worth $1,050. If it’s graded 45, that jumps to $3,000. Near uncirculated coins (grade 58+) can be worth a jaw-dropping $8,500.
1950-S/D Washington Quarter
This one’s a mintmark mystery. The 1950-S/D shows signs of the San Francisco mintmark punched over a Denver one. The overpunched “S” is visible with magnification and gives this coin a collectible edge.
A low-grade example (grade 3) is valued around $26. But find one in excellent condition (grade 55), and you’re looking at a $325 coin — not bad for a quarter!
1950-D/S Washington Quarter
The D/S version flips the script: a Denver mintmark punched over an “S.” Though similar in story and value to the S/D variant, it’s even scarcer in mint state condition.
Values mirror the S/D — $26 at grade 3, up to $220 for coins in near-uncirculated condition (grade 55). With only 20,000 known survivors, this one is definitely worth keeping an eye out for.
Final Thoughts
Who knew pocket change could hold such treasure? Whether it’s an old Washington quarter from the 1930s or a modern W-mint release, there are gems floating around in everyday circulation.
Keep an eye out for oddities like doubling, extra leaves, or tiny mintmark quirks. A magnifying glass and a little curiosity might just lead you to your next great find. Happy hunting!