Washington Quarters are a staple of American currency and also a treasure trove for collectors.
Over the years, certain mint marks and years have soared in value, becoming highly sought-after pieces worth thousands of dollars.
The design was introduced in 1932 to commemorate the anniversary of George Washington’s birth. The coin’s design was chosen through a competition, won by sculptor John Flanagan. Its introduction marked a shift towards modern coinage featuring historical figures.
1932-S Washington Quarter
The 1932-S Washington Quarter is one of the most valuable in the series due to its low mintage of just 408,000 coins. Its scarcity has made it a prized acquisition for collectors.
The obverse features a left-facing profile of George Washington, designed by John Flanagan. The reverse showcases an eagle with outstretched wings perched on a bundle of arrows above two olive branches. The edge consists of 119 reeds.
The Washington Quarters of this era were composed of 90% silver and 10% copper, with a weight of 6.25 grams and a diameter of 24.3 millimeters.
1932-S Quarter Values
| Condition | Estimated Value Range |
|---|---|
| Good | $200 – $300 |
| Fine | $350 – $450 |
| Extra Fine (XF45) | $600 – $800 |
| About Uncirculated (AU) | $1,000 – $1,500 |
| Brilliant Uncirculated (BU) | $2,000 – $3,000 |
| MS66 | $10,000 – $15,000 |
Error Coins
While the 1932-S is a regular issue, there are rare error coins and special releases that command higher premiums.
Notable errors include doubled die obverses and reverse variations, valued at $2,000 – $5,000 depending on condition.
Additionally, proofs, which are struck with special care for collectors, with pristine strikes, proof coins can fetch $3,000 – $7,000.
Other Washington Quarters Worth Thousands
1932-D Washington Quarter
Like the 1932-S, the 1932-D Washington Quarter is highly sought after due to its low mintage. With only 436,800 minted, this quarter is a key date for collectors.
| Condition | Estimated Value Range |
|---|---|
| Good | $150 – $250 |
| Fine | $300 – $400 |
| Extra Fine (XF45) | $500 – $700 |
| About Uncirculated (AU) | $1,200 – $1,800 |
| Brilliant Uncirculated (BU) | $2,500 – $4,000 |
| MS66 | $12,000 – $18,000 |
Look for signs of alteration, such as added mint marks. When in doubt, consult with professional dealers for authentication. The coin market can fluctuate and values may change over time.
1950-D/S Washington Quarter
In the case of the 1950-D/S Washington Quarter, dies intended for the San Francisco Mint were reassigned to the Denver Mint, and the “D” mint mark was applied over the existing “S.”
| Condition | Estimated Value Range |
|---|---|
| Fine | $40 – $60 |
| Extra Fine (XF45) | $100 – $150 |
| About Uncirculated (AU) | $200 – $300 |
| Brilliant Uncirculated (BU) | $500 – $800 |
| MS66 | $1,500 – $3,500 |
The mint mark is located on the reverse side, positioned below the eagle’s tail feathers and just above the “R” in “QUARTER DOLLAR.” There are known die varieties for this over-mintmark, classified as FS-601 in the Cherrypickers’ Guide to Rare Die Varieties by Whitman Publishing.
1943-S Washington Quarter
The 1943-S is considered a common date within the Washington Quarter series.
| Condition | Estimated Value Range |
|---|---|
| Circulated | Melt Value: $5.67 |
| Brilliant Uncirculated (BU) | $50 to $100 |
| MS66 | $75 to $150 |
1955-D Washington Quarter
The 1955-D Washington Quarter is valued in higher grades for its excellent strike quality, making it a favorite among collectors.
| Condition | Estimated Value Range |
|---|---|
| Circulated | Melt Value: $5.67 |
| Brilliant Uncirculated (BU) | $40 to $75 |
| MS66 | $60+ |
1970-S Proof Washington Quarter Canadian Planchet
In 1970, a mix-up at the San Francisco Mint led to some older Canadian coins to be fed mistakenly into the U.S. Quarter presses. As a result, some 1970-S Proof Washington Quarters were struck on 1941 Canadian Silver Quarters.
| Condition | Estimated Value Range |
|---|---|
| Proof | $5,000 – $40,000 |
1983-P Washington Quarter
The 1983-P Washington Quarter is primarily valuable due to its scarcity in mint state, as few were saved by collectors during this time, making high-grade examples particularly desirable.
| Condition | Estimated Value Range |
|---|---|
| Fine | $5 – $10 |
| Extra Fine (XF45) | $10 – $20 |
| About Uncirculated (AU) | $30 – $50 |
| Brilliant Uncirculated (BU) | $100 – $200 |
| MS67 | $500 – $1,000 |
1999-S Silver Proof Delaware Quarter
The 1999-S Silver Proof Delaware Quarter is part of the state quarter series and is notable for its silver content. These proof coins are highly collectible due to their limited production and beautiful finish.
| Condition | Estimated Value Range |
|---|---|
| Proof | $50 – $100 |
| Proof 70 | $500 – $1,000 |
Washington Quarters hold a special place in American numismatics, with certain issues commanding impressive values due to their rarity, historical significance, and unique features. Collectors and investors alike seek these coins as tangible assets.