Many of us think of quarters as just everyday change, but some can be worth far more than their face value. Hidden among millions of ordinary coins are rare quarters that can fetch up to $300,000. If you’re a coin collector or simply have a collection of quarters, it might be time to take a closer look. You could be sitting on a small fortune without even knowing it. In this article, we’ll uncover the rare varieties of quarters that have been known to sell for staggering amounts and give you tips on how to identify them in your own change jar or collection.
1. 1932-D Washington Quarter
One of the most valuable quarters you can find is the 1932-D Washington Quarter. Only 436,800 of these quarters were minted, making them incredibly rare. If you come across one of these quarters, especially in high grades, it could be worth up to $300,000 or more. A mint-condition example can be sold for a premium at auctions, making it a coin that collectors eagerly search for.
2. 1932-S Washington Quarter
Similar to the 1932-D quarter, the 1932-S Washington Quarter is another rare coin that can command an impressive price. With just over 408,000 minted, this coin is scarce, and in high-grade conditions, it could reach values close to $300,000. The 1932-S quarter is one of the key coins in the Washington quarter series, making it highly desirable to collectors.
3. 1965-1967 Silver Error Quarters
During the mid-1960s, the U.S. Mint switched from silver to copper-nickel for quarters. However, some quarters from 1965-1967 were mistakenly struck using silver blanks instead of copper-nickel ones. These silver error quarters, while less common, can be worth thousands of dollars, and in certain cases, they can fetch up to $300,000 depending on their condition and rarity.
4. 1982 Washington Quarter (Proof Coin with Die Crack)
Another example of a rare quarter is the 1982 Washington Quarter with a die crack error. While not as well-known as the 1932 varieties, this coin features a noticeable die crack running through the coin’s design. Though not many are aware of it, the die crack can significantly raise the value of the coin in the right collector’s market, reaching up to $300,000 for a perfectly preserved example.
While it may seem like a long shot, your spare change could be hiding one of these valuable quarters worth up to $300,000. The 1932-D and 1932-S Washington Quarters, along with certain error coins from the 1960s and 1980s, are highly sought after by collectors. If you have a collection of quarters, it’s definitely worth examining your coins closely for any signs of rarity or minting errors. If you think you’ve found a potential gem, having the coin professionally graded will help you confirm its value and authenticity. Happy coin hunting – your next discovery could be worth a small fortune!
FAQ’s:
What makes the 1932-D and 1932-S Washington Quarters so valuable?
The 1932-D and 1932-S Washington Quarters are highly valuable due to their extremely low mintage. Only a small number were produced, making them rare and sought after by collectors. In excellent condition, they can command prices up to $300,000.
How can I tell if my quarter is a 1932-D or 1932-S Washington Quarter?
You can identify a 1932-D or 1932-S Washington Quarter by looking for the mint mark. The “D” mint mark for Denver and the “S” mint mark for San Francisco will appear just below the eagle on the reverse side of the coin.
What is a silver error quarter from 1965-1967, and why is it valuable?
During the 1960s, a small number of quarters from 1965 to 1967 were mistakenly struck on silver blanks instead of the usual copper-nickel. These silver error quarters are rare, and in good condition, they can be worth up to $300,000.
What should I look for in a 1982 Washington Quarter with a die crack?
The 1982 Washington Quarter with a die crack features a noticeable crack in the die that leaves a permanent mark on the coin’s design. Look for this crack on the reverse side of the coin running through the lettering or eagle.
How do I confirm the value of my quarter?
If you suspect that you have a rare quarter, it’s important to have it professionally graded by services like PCGS or NGC. They can authenticate the coin and provide a detailed evaluation of its condition, which affects its value.
