The Washington quarter is the 25-cent coin we all know – George Washington on the front, eagle (or new designs) on the back. Minted since 1932, billions exist… but a tiny handful have mistakes or special features that make them insanely valuable.
A Quick History of the Washington Quarter
In 1932, the U.S. Mint celebrated George Washington’s 200th birthday by replacing the Standing Liberty quarter with his portrait. The original 1932–1964 coins are 90% silver. After 1964, they switched to copper-nickel except for special years. Tiny minting errors during this 90+ year run created today’s treasures.
Why Some Washington Quarters Are Worth a Fortune
Perfect storms of low mintage, famous errors, and high-grade condition drive the prices. A normal circulated Washington quarter = 25¢. The same date with a doubled die or struck on the wrong metal? Thousands – even tens of thousands.
The 9 Most Valuable Washington Quarters in 2025
- 1932-D – The key date. MS-67 examples top $25,000+
- 1932-S – Tiny mintage of 408,000. MS-66+ over $10,000
- 1936 Doubled Die Obverse – Dramatic doubling on “IN GOD WE TRUST”. Up to $15,000
- 1942-D Doubled Die Obverse – Clear doubling, rare in high grade
- 1950-D/S – D mint mark struck over S. Extremely scarce
- 1964-D Doubled Die Reverse – Last silver year with big error
- 1970-S Proof Struck on Silver Planchet – Wrong metal! $20,000+
- 1983-P Off-Metal on Copper Planchet – Should be copper-nickel, instead pure copper – $30,000+
- 1937 Doubled Die Obverse – One of the boldest errors ever. Finest example sold for $50,700 in 2023!
Price Comparison Table: Common vs. Rare
| Year / Variety | Circulated Value | MS-65 Value | Record Sale |
|---|---|---|---|
| Regular 1964 Quarter | $6–8 (silver) | $15–25 | – |
| 1932-D Washington | $100–200 | $8,000–$15,000 | $25,000+ |
| 1937 Doubled Die Obverse | $800–$1,500 | $12,000+ | $50,700 (2023) |
| 1983-P Off-Metal | – | $25,000–$35,000 | $40,000+ |
Rarity & Recent Auction Highlights Table
| Coin | Grade | Auction Price | Year Sold |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1937 DDO | MS-67+ | $50,700 | 2023 |
| 1932-D | MS-67 | $35,250 | 2024 |
| 1983-P Copper Planchet | MS-63 | $31,200 | 2022 |
How to Check Your Quarters for These Hidden Gems
Grab a 10x loupe (under $10 on Amazon) and look for:
- Doubled letters or dates (especially 1934, 1937, 1942-D, 1950-D/S)
- Tiny “D” or “S” mint marks
- Weigh your 1964 and earlier quarters – real silver weighs 6.25g
- 1965–present should weigh 5.67g – heavier or lighter = possible error!
Expert Tips from Coin Collectors
- Check rolls from the bank – people still cash in grandpa’s jars!
- Never clean coins – it destroys value.
- Get suspected rarities graded by PCGS or NGC.
- Follow Heritage Auctions and GreatCollections for current prices.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are all old Washington quarters valuable?
A: No – only specific dates, mint marks, and major errors.
Q: Where is the mint mark on Washington quarters?
A: Right of the ribbon under the wreath (1932–1964) or right of ponytail (1968–today).
Q: Can I still find these in circulation?
A: Extremely unlikely for the top 9, but 1932-D/S and silver 1964s still turn up!
Final Thoughts – Start Hunting Today!
You now know the 9 rare Washington quarters that can be worth $1,000 to over $50,000. The craziest part? Some of these have been found in pocket change or old jars in the last few years. Pull out that coffee can of old coins, grab a magnifying glass, and who knows – your next quarter could be the one collectors dream about.