In America, the quarter, or 25-cent coin, is still considered very important by many people. Its unique size and weight set it apart from other coins, and it remains commonly used for small purchases. However, there’s something you might not know: the quarter in your pocket could be worth more than just 25 cents—it might be worth thousands of dollars!
Yes, there are many such quarters in America that are still circulating in normal transactions, but if you take them to the right collector, they can fetch as much as a small house. Some coins have been sold for up to $1.7 million.
Let’s learn about some such special American quarters that are still in circulation and whose value can reach millions of dollars.
The special thing about the quarter is Washington on the head, but the story is unique
Since 1932, every American quarter has had the face of the first President of America on one side, but the design on the other side has been changing from time to time. This is the reason why coins issued in certain years become very rare and valuable.
1. 1982-P Washington Quarter – Price $10,200
Sale date: September 2019
This coin, made at the Philadelphia Mint in 1982, has no mint mark, and its quality was so good that it sold for $10,200 at an auction. This coin was issued in general, but its limited and high-quality editions are the first choice of collectors today.
2. 1965 Type 2 Clad Quarter – Price $12,650
Sale date: January 2005
In 1965, the US stopped producing silver coins and started making coins from mixed metal (clad) instead. But in the initial phase of this change, some coins were made in the old design. Coins with such mistakes are considered extremely rare today.
3. 1942 Proof Washington Quarter – Price $16,800
Sale date: December 2020
This coin was not made for general use but specifically for collection. Its shine, design and finesse make it very attractive. This coin has been sold for $16,800.
4. 1962-D Silver Washington Quarter – Price $18,400
Sale date: April 2012
This silver quarter, produced by the Denver Mint, is special because of its high quality and limited number. If you find it in exceptional condition, its price can exceed $18,000.
5. 1976-S Silver Quarter – Price $19,200
Sale date: June 2019
This special quarter, made to commemorate America’s bicentennial (200 years), was issued in silver. It has a very high collectible value, and a coin in perfect condition has fetched prices as high as $19,200.
6. 1943 Double Die Washington Quarter – Price $22,250
Sale Date: March 2020
During the making of this coin, the design was printed twice on its “head” portion, making it a double die quarter. This minting mistake makes it extremely rare and valuable.
7. 1963-D Silver Washington Quarter – Price $24,000
Sale Date: August 2022
This year’s coin also came from the Denver Mint and has now become rare. A collector purchased it for $24,000 due to its excellent condition and silver quality.
8. 1964-D Silver Quarter – Price $38,400
Sale Date: March 2021
The US last made all-silver quarters in 1964. After this, the use of silver was reduced. Due to this, the prices of 1964-D quarters have skyrocketed.
9. 1932-D Washington Quarter – Price $143,750
Sale Date: April 2008
It was part of the first series of Washington quarters and was minted at the Denver Mint. Its rarity and historical significance earned it a price of up to $143,750.
How to identify rare quarters?
- Look at the mint mark: Marks like D (Denver), P (Philadelphia), or S (San Francisco) indicate where the coin was made. Coins with certain mint marks are more valuable.
- Observe the date and design: Silver coins minted before 1932 and before 1964 are worth more.
- Identify double die or other errors: If the images or letters on the coin appear double, it may be a double die.
Conclusion: You may have a treasure in your pocket
Sometimes things that are trivial to us can prove to be priceless to others. Even common coins like quarters can have a hidden treasure. The next time you see an old coin, examine it carefully. It may not be worth just 25 cents to you, but it may bring a reward of thousands of dollars.
FAQs
Q. What makes certain quarters valuable?
A. Certain quarters become valuable due to their rarity, minting errors, historical significance, or their composition (e.g., silver quarters).
Q. What is a “Double Die” quarter?
A. A “Double Die” quarter is a coin struck twice by the minting die, creating doubled images or text, making it a rare and valuable find.
Q. How can I identify a valuable quarter?
A. Look for rare dates, mint marks, special editions, or errors like double die strikes. Also, check the coin’s condition.
Q. Why are 1932 and 1964 quarters valuable?
A. Quarters from 1932, especially with a ‘D’ mint mark, and 1964 silver quarters are rare and often highly valuable due to their historical importance.
Q. Where can I sell valuable quarters?
A. Valuable quarters can be sold through online auctions, numismatic dealers, or specialized coin shows where collectors gather.
