The Washington quarter, first minted in 1932 to honor George Washington’s bicentennial, is a favorite among coin collectors. While many quarters are commonplace, certain rare varieties and error coins within this series have gained extraordinary value. Below, we delve into the four most valuable Washington quarters that could fetch you a small fortune.
1932-D Washington Quarter: A Low-Mintage Gem
The 1932-D Washington quarter holds a special place in numismatics as part of the first-year mintage. Produced at the Denver Mint, only 436,800 coins were struck, making it one of the lowest-mintage quarters in the series. This rarity, coupled with its historical significance, makes it highly desirable.
In excellent condition, the 1932-D quarter has been known to sell for tens of thousands of dollars. Specimens with the highest grades, such as Mint State 67, have fetched over $100,000 at auction. This coin’s combination of rarity and demand cements its status as a collector’s dream.
1932-S Washington Quarter: A San Francisco Treasure
The 1932-S Washington quarter, minted in San Francisco, is even rarer than its Denver counterpart. With a mintage of only 408,000, it ranks as the scarcest coin in the Washington quarter series. Its status as part of the inaugural production year adds to its allure.
Collectors highly value well-preserved examples. A 1932-S quarter in pristine condition can sell for upwards of $90,000, making it a true prize for any collection.
1950-D/S Washington Quarter: The Over-Mintmark Rarity
Error coins hold a special place in numismatics, and the 1950-D/S Washington quarter is a prime example. This coin was struck in Denver but features a fascinating error: an “S” mint mark from San Francisco was mistakenly punched beneath the Denver “D.” This over-mintmark error is a collector’s delight due to its uniqueness.
In top condition, the 1950-D/S quarter can command prices exceeding $10,000. Its intriguing story and rarity make it a sought-after addition for error coin enthusiasts.
1943 Doubled Die Obverse Washington Quarter: A Unique Error
The 1943 Doubled Die Obverse Washington quarter is another standout coin. It features a notable doubling error on its obverse side, particularly visible in the inscriptions “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST.”
This error enhances the coin’s appeal, as such anomalies are highly prized by collectors. High-grade examples of the 1943 Doubled Die Obverse quarter can sell for up to $15,000, making it a significant find for any numismatist.
Key Details of the Most Valuable Washington Quarters
| Coin Name | Year | Mint Location | Key Feature | Estimated Value ($) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1932-D Washington Quarter | 1932 | Denver | Low mintage | Up to 100,000 |
| 1932-S Washington Quarter | 1932 | San Francisco | Extremely low mintage | Up to 90,000 |
| 1950-D/S Washington Quarter | 1950 | Denver/San Francisco | Over-mintmark error | Up to 10,000 |
| 1943 Doubled Die Obverse | 1943 | Philadelphia | Doubled die error | Up to 15,000 |
These coins exemplify the rarity and allure of Washington quarters, with their historical significance and unique features captivating collectors worldwide. Whether it’s a low mintage or an intriguing mint error, each coin tells a story and adds immense value to a collection. If you come across one of these treasures, it might just be worth a fortune.
FAQs:
1. What makes Washington quarters valuable?
Washington quarters derive their value from factors like low mintages, historical significance, and unique errors, which make them rare and sought after by collectors.
2. How can I identify a 1950-D/S Washington quarter?
Look for the “D” mint mark on the coin’s reverse side. If an “S” appears faintly beneath the “D,” it is a 1950-D/S over-mintmark error.
3. What is the best way to determine a coin’s condition?
Coin grading services like PCGS or NGC offer professional evaluations to assess a coin’s condition and assign a grade, which greatly influences its value.