You might want to check your spare change because some Washington quarters could be worth more than you imagine — in fact, up to $50,700. These coins, often mistaken for ordinary pocket change, hide incredible stories of minting errors, low production, and collector obsession. By the end of this guide, you’ll know exactly which ones to look for — and how to tell if that quarter in your wallet is a hidden gem.
The Story Behind Washington Quarters
The Washington Quarter first appeared in 1932, celebrating the 200th birthday of George Washington. Designed by John Flanagan, it replaced the Standing Liberty Quarter and quickly became one of the most recognized US coins. While millions were minted over the decades, only a handful stand out due to their rarity, condition, and minting quirks. These are the coins collectors chase — and you might unknowingly have one.
Why Some Washington Quarters Are So Valuable
Several factors make certain Washington quarters worth thousands. Low mintages, minting errors, silver composition, and unique varieties are key. Older quarters (1932–1964) contain 90% silver, which already gives them intrinsic value. Add a rare mintmark or error, and the price can skyrocket.
Top 10 Rare Washington Quarters Worth Big Money
1. 1932-D Washington Quarter
Only 436,800 coins were minted in Denver — the lowest of the entire series. Highly sought after by collectors.
Value: $500 – $50,700 (depending on grade and condition)
2. 1932-S Washington Quarter
Another first-year rarity, struck in San Francisco with a mintage under one million.
Value: $200 – $15,000
3. 1943-S Doubled Die Obverse Quarter
The date and inscriptions show strong doubling due to a minting error.
Value: $2,000 – $25,000
4. 1950-D/S Overmintmark Quarter
Features a “D” mintmark punched over an “S.” A dramatic and collectible minting anomaly.
Value: $400 – $2,500
5. 1964-D Washington Quarter (Silver)
The last year quarters were made of 90% silver before switching to copper-nickel. In uncirculated grades, they’re highly collectible.
Value: $100 – $1,500
6. 1970-S Proof Quarter (Struck on 1941 Canadian Coin)
An astonishing mint error where a US quarter was struck on a foreign coin planchet.
Value: $25,000 – $35,000
7. 1976 Bicentennial Quarter (Double Die Obverse)
Issued to celebrate America’s 200th birthday, some show visible doubling on “IN GOD WE TRUST.”
Value: $300 – $3,000
8. 1999-P Delaware Spitting Horse Quarter
A modern error where a die crack appears like a “spit” from the horse’s mouth.
Value: $50 – $250
9. 2004-D Wisconsin Extra Leaf Quarter (High & Low Leaf Varieties)
A die flaw created an extra corn husk leaf — two types exist, both rare and valuable.
Value: $200 – $1,500
10. 2005 Minnesota Extra Tree Quarter
Die errors added an extra “tree” beside the spruce, making this state quarter a modern treasure.
Value: $50 – $600
Quick Value Guide to Rare Washington Quarters
| Year & Variety | Mintmark / Error Detail | Estimated Value Range |
|---|---|---|
| 1932-D Washington Quarter | Low mintage | $500 – $50,700 |
| 1932-S Washington Quarter | Low mintage | $200 – $15,000 |
| 1943-S Doubled Die Obverse | Doubling on date & letters | $2,000 – $25,000 |
| 1950-D/S Overmintmark | D punched over S | $400 – $2,500 |
| 1964-D Silver Quarter | Last silver year | $100 – $1,500 |
| 1970-S Proof on Canadian Planchet | Wrong planchet error | $25,000 – $35,000 |
| 1976 Bicentennial Double Die | Doubling on text | $300 – $3,000 |
| 1999-P Delaware “Spitting Horse” | Die crack error | $50 – $250 |
| 2004-D Wisconsin Extra Leaf | High/low leaf variety | $200 – $1,500 |
| 2005 Minnesota Extra Tree | Die gouge adds extra tree | $50 – $600 |
Tips to Identify Valuable Washington Quarters
| Tip / Feature | What to Look For | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Mintmark | Look for “D” or “S” below the eagle’s tail | Indicates specific rare mints |
| Doubling | Double lines on letters or numbers | Sign of minting error |
| Planchet Type | Wrong metal composition or strike on foreign coin | Extreme rarity |
| Extra Design Marks | Extra leaves, trees, or cracks | Modern state quarter errors |
| Condition | Uncirculated or proof coins are worth more | Higher grade = higher value |
Expert Tips from Coin Collectors
- Use a magnifying glass to spot doubling or die cracks.
- Keep silver quarters (pre-1965) — even common ones are valuable for metal content.
- Get your coins graded by PCGS or NGC to authenticate and boost resale value.
- Store coins properly in holders or albums to prevent wear.
FAQs
Q: Are silver quarters still in circulation?
A: Rarely. Most silver quarters were pulled from circulation decades ago, but finding one is still possible.
Q: How can I tell if my quarter is silver?
A: Check the edge — silver quarters lack the orange-copper line seen on modern coins.
Q: Where can I sell rare quarters?
A: Auction houses, certified coin dealers, and online platforms like eBay or Heritage Auctions.
Conclusion: The Treasure in Your Pocket
The next time you receive change, don’t overlook that quarter. Whether it’s a 1932-D Washington rarity or a modern error like the Wisconsin Extra Leaf, even the smallest details can make it worth thousands. With patience, a sharp eye, and curiosity, you might uncover one of the 10 rare Washington quarters worth up to $50,700 — turning ordinary change into extraordinary fortune.