While most quarters in circulation are worth little more than their face value, certain rare versions can fetch extraordinary prices, with some valued at over $19,000. In this article, we’ll explore the rare Bicentennial quarter that sold for nearly $89,000, along with nine other quarters that are highly valuable. Addressing the unique features and minting errors behind these coins will help collectors appreciate why they command such high prices.
Bicentennial Quarter
The rare Bicentennial quarter that sold for close to $89,000 is truly extraordinary. Minted in 1976 to celebrate the United States’ 200th anniversary, these quarters are distinguished by their dual date “1776-1976” and a unique reverse design featuring a colonial drummer.
However, what makes this specific quarter so valuable is that it was struck on a silver planchet intended for commemorative coins. Since Bicentennial quarters were not supposed to be made from silver, this error increased the coin’s rarity. In addition, the quarter was in pristine condition, which further contributed to its high auction price.
This combination of historical significance, error rarity, and flawless condition makes the $89,000 Bicentennial quarter a standout piece in the world of numismatics.
1932-D Washington Quarter
The 1932-D Washington quarter is another highly valuable coin, especially in mint condition. This quarter was part of the first year of the Washington quarter series, making it historically significant. Minted in Denver, only 436,800 of these coins were produced, which is a relatively low number for quarters.
A 1932-D Washington quarter in uncirculated condition can fetch over $20,000, particularly if the strike is sharp and the details are well-preserved. Collectors seek this coin as it represents the beginning of the long-running Washington quarter series.
1932-S Washington Quarter
Similar to its Denver counterpart, the 1932-S Washington quarter is highly prized due to its low mintage of just 408,000 coins. Minted in San Francisco, this coin is rare and, in high-grade condition, can easily surpass $20,000 at auction.
Collectors value the 1932-S for both its scarcity and historical significance. Finding one in excellent condition without signs of wear is challenging, making it a highly desirable piece for Washington quarter enthusiasts.
1943-S Washington Quarter
The 1943-S Washington quarter holds historical significance, having been minted during World War II. Although 21.7 million coins were produced, finding one in top condition is difficult. Coins with full mint luster and minimal wear can be worth over $19,000.
Collectors appreciate the 1943-S quarter for its connection to the wartime era. Its relatively low mintage and rarity in high grades add to its appeal.
1937 Doubled Die Obverse Washington Quarter
The 1937 doubled die obverse Washington quarter is an error coin that has become highly collectible. The coin features a doubling of design elements on the obverse, a minting error that is both rare and visually striking.
In high-grade condition, this error quarter can be worth more than $19,000. The uniqueness of doubled die errors and the scarcity of well-preserved examples make this coin highly valuable to collectors who specialize in error coins.
1964-D Washington Quarter
The 1964-D Washington quarter is notable as the last year quarters were made from 90% silver before switching to a copper-nickel clad composition in 1965. Coins from this year minted in Denver, especially in top condition, can command prices over $19,000.
High-grade examples with full mint luster and strong strikes are sought after by collectors, as they represent the end of the silver quarter era. The 1964-D is an important coin for those interested in U.S. coinage transitions.
1950-D/S Washington Quarter
The 1950-D/S Washington quarter features a fascinating mint mark error where the “D” mint mark is stamped over an “S.” These over mintmark varieties are rare, and coins in excellent condition with this error can be worth over $19,000.
Collectors appreciate these types of errors for the story they tell about the minting process. The D/S variety makes the 1950-D quarter a highly sought-after piece in numismatic circles.
1941-S Washington Quarter
The 1941-S Washington quarter, minted in San Francisco during the early years of World War II, had a mintage of 16.08 million. Although this number is relatively high, finding coins in excellent condition with full luster and sharp details is difficult.
High-grade examples of the 1941-S quarter can sell for over $19,000. Its historical significance and scarcity in top condition make it a prized coin for collectors of wartime coinage.
1965 Washington Quarter
The 1965 Washington quarter marks the transition from silver to copper-nickel clad composition. While most 1965 quarters are common, some error coins were mistakenly struck on silver planchets intended for 1964 coins. These rare error coins, if found in top condition, can be worth over $19,000.
Collectors value these transitional errors due to their rarity and the historical significance of the switch from silver to clad coinage.
1955 Washington Quarter
The 1955 Washington quarter, with a mintage of 18.51 million, is another coin that can fetch a high price if found in top condition. High-grade examples with strong strikes and minimal wear can exceed $19,000.
This quarter is sought after for its mid-20th-century production and scarcity in well-preserved condition, making it an attractive piece for collectors of post-war U.S. coins.
| Coin | Estimated Value (USD) | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|
| Bicentennial Quarter | ~$89,000 | Struck on silver planchet, error coin |
| 1932-D Washington Quarter | ~$20,000+ | Low mintage, first year of Washington quarter |
| 1932-S Washington Quarter | ~$20,000+ | Low mintage, highly sought after |
| 1943-S Washington Quarter | ~$19,000+ | Wartime minting, scarce in high grades |
| 1937 Doubled Die Obverse Quarter | ~$19,000+ | Rare doubled die error |
| 1964-D Washington Quarter | ~$19,000+ | Last 90% silver quarter, high-grade examples |
| 1950-D/S Washington Quarter | ~$19,000+ | D/S mint mark error |
| 1941-S Washington Quarter | ~$19,000+ | World War II-era coin, rare in top condition |
| 1965 Washington Quarter (Silver error) | ~$19,000+ | Struck on silver planchet, rare error |
| 1955 Washington Quarter | ~$19,000+ | Scarce in high grades, mid-century minting |
These quarters, each with their own story and unique characteristics, have become highly valuable due to a combination of rarity, condition, and historical significance. Collectors of U.S. coins are always on the lookout for these rare finds, as they represent both a piece of history and a significant financial investment.
FAQs
What makes the rare Bicentennial quarter so valuable?
It was struck on a silver planchet, an error, and is in pristine condition.
How much is a 1932-D Washington quarter worth?
In uncirculated condition, it can fetch over $20,000.
What is a doubled die obverse quarter?
It’s a coin with a minting error where design elements appear doubled.
Why is the 1964-D quarter valuable?
It was the last 90% silver quarter, and high-grade examples are rare.
What is an over mintmark error?
It occurs when a mint mark is stamped over another, such as the 1950-D/S quarter.
