Washington quarters have been part of American life for nearly a century—and while most of us think of them as simple pocket change, a handful of these coins are worth serious money today. Ever wondered if that old quarter in your junk drawer could be worth thousands? It’s happened before. Some rare Washington quarters, especially early issues and dramatic minting mistakes, now sell for tens of thousands of dollars.
Here’s a closer look at nine of the rarest and most valuable Washington quarters, what makes them special, and how to spot one if it ever crosses your path.
1932-D Washington Quarter – Up to $50,700
Mint: Denver
Mintage: 436,800
Why It’s Rare: This was one of the very first Washington quarters ever made—and Denver produced the fewest of all mints that year.
Identification Tip: Check for the “D” mint mark under the eagle on the reverse.
Value Range: $1,000–$50,700 depending on condition.
1932-S Washington Quarter – Up to $35,000
Mint: San Francisco
Mintage: 408,000
Why It’s Rare: Along with the 1932-D, this is one of the two inaugural low-mintage coins from the series.
Identification Tip: Look for the “S” mint mark under the eagle.
Value Range: $800–$35,000 for top-grade examples.
1943-S Doubled Die Obverse Quarter – Up to $20,000
Mint: San Francisco
Mintage: Unknown (error coin)
Why It’s Rare: A striking doubled die on Washington’s eye and the word “LIBERTY” gives this coin a dramatic look collectors love.
Identification Tip: Use a magnifier—doubling is seen around “IN GOD WE TRUST.”
Value Range: $2,000–$20,000.
1950-D/S Overmintmark Quarter – Up to $5,000
Mint: Denver
Why It’s Rare: A rare case where a “D” mint mark was stamped over an “S.”
Identification Tip: Look for an “S” ghost shape beneath the “D.”
Value Range: $400–$5,000.
1950-S/D Overmintmark Quarter – Up to $4,000
Mint: San Francisco
Why It’s Rare: This is the reverse version of the previous coin—an “S” mint mark punched over a “D.”
Identification Tip: A faint “D” under the “S” marks the error.
Value Range: $300–$4,000.
1964-D Doubled Die Reverse Quarter – Up to $7,000
Mint: Denver
Why It’s Rare: A bold doubled die appears on the reverse lettering, especially “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” and “QUARTER DOLLAR.”
Identification Tip: Doubling is visible to the naked eye on some examples.
Value Range: $500–$7,000.
1970-S Proof Quarter Struck on a 1941 Canadian Coin – Up to $35,000
Mint: San Francisco
Why It’s Rare: This is one of the strangest and most valuable mint errors ever recorded—a U.S. proof quarter struck on a 1941 Canadian silver coin.
Identification Tip: Look closely for traces of the original Canadian design beneath the U.S. strike.
Value Range: $25,000–$35,000.
1983-P Washington Quarter (No Mint Mark) – Up to $1,500
Mint: Philadelphia
Why It’s Rare: 1983 quarters were generally poorly struck, and high-grade examples are tough to find. This variety has no mint mark at all.
Identification Tip: Look below Washington’s neck—if the area is blank, you may have the rare no-mint-mark coin.
Value Range: $100–$1,500.
2004-D Wisconsin “Extra Leaf” Quarter – Up to $2,500
Mint: Denver
Why It’s Rare: A die flaw created an extra leaf on the ear of corn. Two versions exist: “High Leaf” and “Low Leaf.”
Identification Tip: Inspect the corn husk—any extra leaf means the coin is valuable.
Value Range: $150–$2,500 depending on variety and grade.
How to Identify a Rare Washington Quarter
Check the Mint Mark: On older quarters (before 1968), the mint mark sits on the reverse. After 1968, it appears on the front.
Look for Errors: Doubling, missing mint marks, odd shapes, or unexpected designs often signal rare coins.
Assess Condition: Mint State (MS) or Proof coins bring the highest value.
Use a Magnifier: Some valuable varieties have tiny details only visible up close.
Verify with Experts: Professional grading services like PCGS and NGC can authenticate and grade your coin.
Final Thoughts
Washington quarters aren’t just part of everyday spending—they’re small pieces of American history. And once in a while, they turn out to be hidden treasures worth thousands of dollars. Whether you’re casually checking pocket change or building a full collection, it’s always worth giving your quarters a second look. A rare find could be hiding right under your nose.
FAQ: 9 Rare Washington Quarters Worth Up to $50,700
Q: Can rare Washington quarters still be found in circulation?
A: Yes—especially varieties like the 2004-D “Extra Leaf” quarter, which have turned up in regular pocket change.
Q: What’s the most valuable Washington quarter?
A: The 1932-D is one of the priciest, reaching up to $50,700 in pristine condition.
Q: Where can I sell valuable quarters?
A: Trusted auction houses, certified coin dealers, and reputable online platforms such as Heritage Auctions or Stack’s Bowers.
Q: Are proof quarters worth collecting?
A: Definitely. Proof coins—especially those with unique mint errors—often see strong long-term value growth.
