Top 10 Quarters Still in Circulation Worth a Small Fortune: Coin collecting can be an exciting hobby, especially when you stumble upon quarters that are worth far more than their face value. Whether due to errors, rarity, or historical significance, some quarters have captured the attention of collectors and enthusiasts alike. Here’s a closer look at some of the most valuable quarters and why they are so highly sought after.
1. 2019-W and 2020-W Washington Quarters
In 2019 and 2020, the U.S. Mint made history by releasing quarters from the West Point Mint, marked with a “W” mintmark. These were the first-ever quarters to be minted at West Point for general circulation.
Mintage: 2 million per design
Significance: First-ever circulation quarters from West Point Mint
Current Value: Potential for future collectible status
These quarters were mixed into general circulation, meaning they can still be found by keen-eyed collectors, making them exciting treasures for those on the hunt.
2. 1932-D Washington Quarter
The 1932-D Washington quarter is one of the rarest quarters from the early years of the Washington quarter series, minted in Denver. With a limited mintage, this coin has become a prized possession for collectors.
Mintage: 436,800
Grade 2 Value: $70
AU55 Value: $525
Even heavily circulated examples of the 1932-D quarter are valuable, while uncirculated versions are considered highly collectible.
3. 1932-S Washington Quarter
The 1932-S Washington quarter holds the record for the lowest mintage among all Washington quarters, making it even rarer than its Denver counterpart. Its rarity and historical significance make it a standout coin.
Mintage: 408,000
Grade 2 Value: $85
AU55 Value: $285
With only around 40,000 examples surviving today and only 500 in mint condition, the 1932-S quarter is an incredibly rare find.
4. 1937-S Washington Quarter
Though not as rare as the 1932 quarters, the 1937-S Washington quarter is still a highly desirable coin for collectors.
Mintage: Moderate
Grade 3 Value: $8
AU58 Value: $165
Its value increases with higher grades, reflecting both its scarcity and demand among collectors.
5. 2004-D Wisconsin Quarter, Extra Leaf Low
The 2004-D Wisconsin quarter features an interesting minting anomaly where an extra leaf appears on the corn husk design, giving it its unique character. This error makes it a collector’s item.
Low Leaf Value (Grade 30): $38
Low Leaf Value (Grade 55): $80
This error could have been caused by either a die issue or an intentional alteration, but either way, it has become highly sought after by collectors.
6. 2004-D Wisconsin Quarter, Extra Leaf High
Similar to the low leaf variation, the high leaf version of the 2004 Wisconsin quarter features a rare extra leaf on the corn stalk, making it an even rarer find.
High Leaf Value (Grade 30): $45
High Leaf Value (Grade 55): $110
Both the low and high leaf versions of this quarter have gained considerable attention, making them an important find for any collector of mint errors.
7. 1934 Washington Quarter, Double Die Obverse
The 1934 Washington quarter from Philadelphia features a noticeable doubling on its obverse, particularly around “IN GOD WE TRUST” and “LIBERTY.” This doubling error increases the coin’s value.
Grade 2 Value: $45
Grade 45 Value: $235
Collectors are drawn to this coin due to its striking visual appeal and the rarity of doubling errors.
8. 1943 Washington Quarter, Double Die Obverse
The 1943 Washington quarter also displays a doubling error, with the most visible doubling occurring on “IN GOD WE TRUST.” This version is rarer than the 1934 quarter, making it a valuable find.
Mintage: Approximately 100 million
Doubling Visibility: Clearly seen on “IN GOD WE TRUST”
This error coin can command higher prices depending on its condition, making it a worthwhile addition to any collection.
9. 1950-S/D Washington Quarter
The 1950-S/D Washington quarter features an overpunched mintmark, with the “S” mintmark stamped over a “D.” This rare error makes it particularly valuable to collectors.
Grade 3 Value: $26
AU55 Value: $325
Its unique mintmark error and historical value make it a fascinating coin for numismatists.
10. 1950-D/S Washington Quarter
The 1950-D/S Washington quarter features an error where a “D” mintmark was stamped over an “S,” making it a rare and valuable piece in the world of Washington quarters.
Grade 3 Value: $26
AU55 Value: $220
Though slightly less common than the 1950-S/D variety, this coin is still highly desirable due to its distinctive error.
What Makes Quarters Valuable?
Rarity
Coins with low mintage or a limited number surviving over time tend to become highly valuable due to their scarcity.
Errors
Minting mistakes, such as doubled images or overpunched mintmarks, increase a coin’s rarity and desirability.
Condition
Quarters in mint state or uncirculated condition fetch significantly higher prices, especially if they exhibit no wear.
Historical Significance
Quarters that are from first-year issues, or those with unique features, are more valuable due to their connection to U.S. history.
FAQs
What makes a quarter valuable?
Rarity, condition, and minting errors can all significantly increase a quarter’s value.
What is the rarest Washington quarter?
The 1932-S Washington quarter is the rarest, with only 408,000 minted.
What is a double die obverse?
A double die obverse refers to a coin where the image on the front appears doubled due to a die error.
What is the 2004 Wisconsin extra leaf quarter?
The 2004 Wisconsin quarter features an extra leaf on the corn husk design, making it a valuable error coin.
What is the value of a 1932-D quarter?
A 1932-D quarter can range in value from $70 to over $500, depending on its condition.
Coins like these, with unique errors, limited mintage, and historical significance, offer great opportunities for collectors to find rare and valuable pieces. Keep an eye out for these quarters — you may just come across a hidden treasure!
