Overview of Rare Washington Quarters
Washington quarters (first issued 1932) include several dates, mint marks, and error varieties that command high prices in the collector market. Many pieces only reach five-figure values when they are in extremely high grade or are dramatic error pieces.
This article lists nine rare Washington quarters that can be valued at more than $50,000 in top condition, and gives clear spotting tips so you know what to look for.
Nine Rare Washington Quarters Valued Over $50,000
-
1932-S Washington Quarter (High Grade and Proofs)
Why it’s valuable: Low mintage and few survivors in gem condition make the 1932-S a top date. Proof and high MS grades are especially scarce.
How to spot it: Look for the S mint mark below the eagle on the reverse or on the obverse shoulder for proofs. Check luster and strike; wear kills value quickly.
-
1932-D Washington Quarter (High Grade)
Why it’s valuable: Like the 1932-S, the Denver issue had a small mintage and few high-grade survivors.
How to spot it: Find the D mint mark below the eagle. Examine the hair detail on Washington’s bust — sharp hair and full rims indicate higher grade.
-
Early Proof Washington Quarters (1932 and 1930s)
Why it’s valuable: Early proofs were produced in very small quantities and many were lost or damaged.
How to spot it: Proofs show mirror-like fields and frosted devices. Proof mint marks may appear differently placed than circulation strikes.
-
Major Doubled Die Obverse Varieties
Why it’s valuable: Dramatic doubled dies that clearly show doubling on legends or portraits are sought by specialists.
How to spot it: Inspect the date, IN GOD WE TRUST, and LIBERTY for doubling. Use 5–10x magnification and oblique lighting.
-
Repunched Mint Mark (RPM) and Overpunched Mint Marks
Why it’s valuable: Prominent repunched or overpunched mint marks, especially on key dates, can be unique and pricey.
How to spot it: Look closely at mint mark area for ghost letters or overlapping impressions. A loupe is essential.
-
Mule Errors and Die Mismatches
Why it’s valuable: Mules — coins struck with mismatched obverse and reverse dies — are extremely rare and command collector attention.
How to spot it: If the design elements don’t logically match the series (e.g., wrong eagle or reverse design), consult an expert before assuming low value.
-
Off-Center Strikes Over 40%
Why it’s valuable: Dramatic off-center strikes that still show most of the design are rare and can be valuable depending on grade and eye appeal.
How to spot it: Look for incomplete rims and displaced designs. Note how much of the date and mint mark remain readable.
-
Broadstruck and Weakly Struck Varieties
Why it’s valuable: Broadstrikes or striking anomalies that are attractive and rare draw strong bids from specialists.
How to spot it: A broadstruck coin will appear slightly larger with flattened rims. Weak strikes show soft details intentionally from a die problem.
-
Ultra High Grade Survivors (MS66 and Above)
Why it’s valuable: Even common dates can reach very high values when certified extremely high grade by a major grading service.
How to spot it: Examine surfaces for breakouts, full luster, and no hairlines. Only submit to a reputable grading service for certification.
How to Spot Valuable Washington Quarters: Practical Steps
- Check the date and mint mark location carefully using a loupe or macro photo.
- Look for sharp hair lines, full rims, and original luster — signs of high grade.
- Inspect for errors: doubling, RPMs, mules, off-center strikes, and broadstrikes.
- Compare with authoritative references or the PCGS/NGC online census and variety attribution guides.
- When in doubt, get third-party grading and a specialist opinion before selling.
The first Washington quarters in 1932 were issued to honor George Washington’s 200th birthday and include some of the most sought-after mintages for the series.
Common Fakes and How to Avoid Them
Counterfeits and altered coins are common in high-value categories. Watch for added mint marks, cleaned surfaces, or mechanically altered devices meant to mimic rare varieties.
Always verify with a certified grader or experienced dealer before trading a high-value Washington quarter.
Case Study: Submitting a 1932 Quarter for Grading
A collector found a 1932-D quarter in an estate lot and noticed sharp hair details. After photographing and comparing it to online references, they submitted it to a major grading service.
Once certified at a high grade, the coin attracted strong interest at auction from specialist quarter collectors. The case highlights how correct identification and professional grading can unlock market value.
Final Checklist for Spotting High-Value Washington Quarters
- Confirm date and mint mark location precisely.
- Check for mint-state luster, strike quality, and surface preservation.
- Look for dramatic errors or unusual die markers with magnification.
- Use reputable references and consider third-party grading for any potential five-figure coin.
- Get a second opinion from a specialist before selling or buying.
By focusing on date, mint mark, condition, and genuine error identification, you can spot the Washington quarters most likely to reach or exceed $50,000 in the marketplace.
