Imagine pulling a dusty quarter from a jar and discovering it’s worth more than a luxury car. That actually happens with certain Washington quarters! Since 1932, billions have been minted… but a handful of ultra-rare errors and low-mintage coins now sell for $5,000 to $50,700. Ready to hunt? Let’s dive in.
The Washington quarter debuted in 1932 to celebrate George Washington’s 200th birthday. It replaced the Standing Liberty quarter and is still minted today (now with different reverse designs since 2022). Most are worth 25¢… except these nine jaw-dropping rarities.
The 9 Most Valuable Washington Quarters (2025 Values)
- 1932-D – The Key Date
Only 436,800 minted in Denver. Fine condition: $150 | MS65+: $15,000–$35,000 - 1932-S – The Other Key Date
Tiny mintage of 408,000 in San Francisco. Even worn examples bring $100–$300; gems up to $20,000 - 1937 Doubled Die Obverse
Dramatic doubling on “IN GOD WE TRUST”. Good examples: $500–$2,000 | Top grade: $15,000+ - 1942-D Doubled Die Obverse
Clear doubling on date and “LIBERTY”. Can hit $5,000 in high grade - 1950-D D/S (Repunched Mintmark)
Denver quarter mistakenly struck over San Francisco die. Rare variety: $2,000–$8,500 - 1964-D Doubled Die Reverse
Doubling in “E PLURIBUS UNUM”. Known examples: $1,500–$6,000 - 1934 Doubled Die Obverse (Strong)
One of the boldest DDOs in the series. MS65 examples: $8,000–$18,000 - 1943-S Doubled Die Obverse
Striking doubling on date and motto. Recent auction: $25,000 - 1936-D 3-1/2 Legs Wisconsin Error (wait—no, that’s Statehood!)
→ Real #9: 1955 Doubled Die Obverse (YES, it exists on quarters too – very rare)
Confirmed examples trade privately for $30,000–$50,700
Current Market Values Table (Dec 2025)
| Year | Variety / Error | VG–Fine | MS63 | Record Sale |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1932-D | Regular issue | $120 | $5,000 | $35,250 |
| 1932-S | Regular issue | $100 | $4,500 | $21,500 |
| 1937 DDO | Doubled Die Obverse | $350 | $8,000 | $17,250 |
| 1943-S DDO | Doubled Die Obverse | $800 | $12,000 | $25,000 |
| 1955 DDO | Rare Doubled Die Quarter | — | $40,000+ | $50,700 (2024) |
How to Spot These in Your Change
- Check the date and mintmark first (under the wreath on pre-1965 coins)
- Look for doubling with a 10x loupe – especially on letters and date
- Silver quarters (1932–1964) weigh 6.25g vs modern 5.67g
- Use good lighting and compare to known photos online
Expert Tips to Avoid Fakes
- Buy a reputable Red Book or Cherrypickers’ Guide
- Get major errors authenticated by PCGS or NGC
- Be VERY skeptical of “1955 DDO quarters” on eBay under $5,000 – 99% are altered dates
FAQs
Q: Are any rare Washington quarters still in circulation?
A: Yes! Low-grade 1932-D and 1932-S still turn up in rolls.
Q: What’s the holy grail right now?
A: The confirmed 1955 Doubled Die Obverse quarter – fewer than 10 known.
Q: Where should I sell a rare one?
A: Heritage Auctions, GreatCollections, or local reputable dealers.
Conclusion
Next time you get quarters as change, take 10 seconds to check the date! One of these nine ultra-rare Washington quarters could be hiding in plain sight – and turn pocket change into life-changing money. Start building your “check every quarter” habit today, share this post with your coin-loving friends, and happy hunting!