Quarters are a staple in American currency, but certain rare editions and errors have transformed some into highly sought-after collectibles.
This article delves into the top 10 most valuable quarters still in circulation, detailing their unique characteristics and current market values.
1. 1932-D Washington Quarter
- Description: The 1932-D quarter, minted in Denver, is one of the key dates in the Washington quarter series due to its low mintage of 436,800 coins.
- Value: Depending on condition, these quarters can range from $100 to over $1,000.
2. 1932-S Washington Quarter
- Description: Similar to the 1932-D, the 1932-S quarter from the San Francisco Mint had a low mintage of 408,000, making it highly desirable among collectors.
- Value: In good condition, these coins can fetch between $125 and $1,500.
3. 1943 Double Die Obverse (DDO) Washington Quarter
- Description: This error coin features noticeable doubling on the obverse, particularly in the inscriptions “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST.”
- Value: High-grade specimens have sold for over $20,000.
4. 1950-D/S Washington Quarter
- Description: A minting error where a Denver mintmark (“D”) was stamped over a San Francisco mintmark (“S”), creating a unique overpunched appearance.
- Value: Depending on condition, these coins can be worth between $300 and $1,000.
5. 1965 Silver Washington Quarter Error
- Description: In 1965, the U.S. Mint transitioned from silver to a copper-nickel clad composition for quarters. However, a few 1965 quarters were mistakenly struck on 90% silver planchets.
- Value: These rare error coins can fetch between $7,000 and $10,000.
6. 1970-S Proof Washington Quarter (Struck on 1941 Canadian Quarter)
- Description: A rare error where a 1970-S proof quarter was mistakenly struck on a 1941 Canadian quarter planchet.
- Value: One such coin sold for over $35,000.
7. 1983-P Washington Quarter
- Description: Due to the lack of mint sets in 1982 and 1983, high-grade 1983-P quarters are scarce.
- Value: In mint state, these coins can be worth between $20 and $50.
8. 1999-P Delaware Spitting Horse Quarter
- Description: A die crack error on the reverse side gives the appearance of the horse “spitting.”
- Value: Depending on the prominence of the error, these quarters can be worth between $5 and $20.
9. 2004-D Wisconsin Extra Leaf Quarter
- Description: Some 2004-D Wisconsin quarters feature an extra leaf on the corn stalk, either pointing up or down, due to a die error.
- Value: These error coins can fetch between $50 and $300.
10. 2005 Minnesota Double Die Quarter
- Description: This error features extra trees in the background due to a doubled die.
- Value: Depending on the severity of the doubling, these quarters can be worth between $5 and $50.
| Year | Mint Mark | Error/Variety | Estimated Value Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1932 | D | Low Mintage | $100 – $1,000 |
| 1932 | S | Low Mintage | $125 – $1,500 |
| 1943 | None | Double Die Obverse | Up to $20,000 |
| 1950 | D/S | Overpunched Mintmark | $300 – $1,000 |
| 1965 | None | Silver Planchet Error | $7,000 – $10,000 |
| 1970 | S | Struck on 1941 Canadian Quarter | Over $35,000 |
| 1983 | P | High-Grade Scarcity | $20 – $50 |
| 1999 | P | Spitting Horse Die Crack | $5 – $20 |
| 2004 | D | Extra Leaf Error | $50 – $300 |
| 2005 | None | Double Die (Extra Trees) | $5 – $50 |
Conclusion
While many quarters are common, certain errors and low-mintage editions have elevated some to extraordinary value. Collectors and enthusiasts should remain vigilant, as these hidden treasures can sometimes be found in everyday change.
FAQs
1. What makes a quarter valuable?
Rarity, minting errors, and unique varieties contribute to a quarter’s value. Coins with low mintage numbers or significant errors are especially sought after.
2. How can I identify a valuable quarter?
Look for key dates, mintmarks, and errors. Using a magnifying glass can aid in detecting anomalies.
3. Are all old quarters valuable?
Not all. While some older quarters are valuable due to errors or low mintage, many are common and hold minimal value beyond face.
4. Should I clean my old quarters to increase their value?
No. Cleaning coins can reduce their value. Collectors prefer coins in their original condition, even if tarnished.
5. Where can I sell a rare quarter?
Consider reputable coin dealers, auction houses, or online platforms specializing in numismatics. Always ensure the buyer is trustworthy to receive a fair price.
