The Washington Quarter is a staple of American coinage, but some rare versions have become highly sought-after treasures for collectors. Let’s look into five unique quarters that stand out for their rarity, historical significance, or fascinating errors.
1932-D Washington Quarter
With only 436,800 coins minted at the Denver Mint, the 1932-D Washington Quarter is among the 20th century’s scarcest quarters. This coin’s rarity and historical importance make it a must-have for serious collectors. In well-preserved condition, these quarters often sell for over $1,000, with prices skyrocketing for higher-grade examples. It’s a cornerstone coin that embodies both scarcity and collectability.
1932-S Washington Quarter
Even rarer than its Denver counterpart, the San Francisco Mint produced just 408,000 quarters in 1932. This makes the 1932-S Washington Quarter one of the lowest-mintage issues of the series. Collectors prize this coin not just for its rarity but also for its connection to American history. Like the 1932-D, well-preserved specimens can easily fetch over $1,000, marking it as another essential piece for numismatists.
1942-S Silver Washington Quarter
Minted during World War II, the 1942-S Silver Washington Quarter carries immense historical significance. Made from 90% silver, its relatively low mintage makes it particularly appealing to collectors. Coins in excellent condition can exceed $1,000, combining the allure of wartime memorabilia with the intrinsic value of precious metals. For collectors interested in U.S. history, this coin is a gem.
1950-D/S Overmintmark Quarter
This fascinating error coin is a product of the Denver Mint stamping over a previously applied San Francisco mint mark, creating the distinctive “D/S” overmintmark. These coins provide insight into the intricacies of minting operations and are a favorite among error coin enthusiasts. High-grade examples regularly surpass $1,000, making this quarter a unique and valuable addition to any collection.
1964-D Washington Quarter
As part of the final year of 90% silver quarter production, the 1964-D Washington Quarter is historically significant. Some examples feature a double die reverse error, with the phrase “E PLURIBUS UNUM” appearing doubled. This combination of historical importance, silver content, and minting error makes these quarters especially desirable. Well-preserved specimens often sell for more than $1,000, drawing attention from both silver investors and coin collectors.
From low mintages to minting errors, these Washington Quarters offer something for every collector. Whether you’re drawn to the historical stories they tell or their intrinsic value, these coins are worth keeping an eye out for. They remind us that even the smallest pieces of money can hold great significance.
FAQs
Why is the 1932-D Washington Quarter valuable?
It has a low mintage of only 436,800 coins.
What makes the 1932-S quarter rarer?
Fewer were minted, only 408,000 from San Francisco.
What is unique about the 1950-D/S Quarter?
It features a D/S overmintmark error.
Why is the 1964-D quarter significant?
It was the last 90% silver quarter.
What is special about the 1942-S quarter?
Its silver content and wartime history.