For decades, coin collectors and savvy hobbyists have turned to pocket change and old coin jars in search of rare American quarters worth far more than their face value. While most quarters are worth just 25 cents, a handful of them—due to their rarity, condition, and minting anomalies—can fetch thousands of dollars at auction.
If you’ve got a stash of change lying around, it’s worth taking a closer look. These nine quarters are among the most valuable American coins still in circulation, and some could be sitting unnoticed in your own collection.
1. 1982-P Washington Quarter (No Mint Mark) – Sold for $10,200
Produced at the Philadelphia Mint, this quarter lacks a mint mark, which makes it particularly rare. In 2019, one sold for $10,200 due to its pristine condition and unique strike. This version of the 1982 quarter can easily be mistaken for an ordinary coin, so pay close attention to the lack of a mint mark.
2. 1965 Type 2 Clad Quarter – Sold for $12,650
In 1965, the U.S. Mint transitioned from 90% silver coins to clad (copper-nickel) coins. A rare Type 2 clad 1965 quarter, showing distinct differences in rim design and finish, sold for $12,650 at auction in 2005. This coin is a standout because it was part of a transitional period.
3. 1942 Proof Washington Quarter – Sold for $16,800
Proof coins are specially made for collectors using polished blanks and dies. A 1942 proof quarter sold for $16,800 in 2020. These coins are distinguishable by their mirror-like finish and are rarely found in general circulation.
4. 1962-D Silver Washington Quarter – Sold for $18,400
Struck in Denver and composed of 90% silver, this quarter fetched $18,400 in 2012. Its high-grade preservation and silver content made it desirable among collectors, especially those focused on pre-1965 silver coins.
5. 1976-S Bicentennial Silver Quarter – Sold for $19,200
Issued to celebrate the U.S. Bicentennial, the 1976-S silver business strike quarter is part of a special collector’s edition. One in pristine condition sold for $19,200 in 2019. Look for the “S” mint mark and the dual date “1776–1976.”
6. 1943 DDO (Doubled Die Obverse) Quarter – Sold for $22,250
A 1943 quarter with a Doubled Die Obverse (DDO)—a minting error where design elements appear twice—sold for $22,250 in 2020. These rare varieties can often be spotted with a magnifying glass, especially in the date and lettering.
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7. 1963-D Silver Quarter – Sold for $24,000
Another Denver-minted silver coin, the 1963-D quarter is valuable for both its silver content and excellent condition. In 2022, a collector paid $24,000 for a near-flawless version.
8. 1964-D Silver Washington Quarter – Sold for $38,400
This was the final year silver quarters were minted for circulation. A top-condition 1964-D quarter sold for $38,400 in 2021. Coins from this year are always worth a second look due to their silver content and collectability.
9. 1932-D Washington Quarter – Sold for $143,750
One of the most legendary quarters among collectors, the 1932-D was part of the very first year of the Washington quarter series. With a low mintage and high rarity, a specimen sold for an astonishing $143,750 in 2008.
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Why These Quarters Are So Valuable
The value of these quarters depends on a few key factors:
- Mintage: Low production years and specific mints (like Denver or San Francisco) can create rare coins.
- Errors: Misprints such as doubling, missing mint marks, or off-center strikes increase desirability.
- Condition: Coins graded MS-67 or higher by services like NGC or PCGS often command top dollar.
- Historical Significance: Coins linked to historic periods (like the Bicentennial) attract collectors.
What Should You Do If You Find One?
If you believe you have a valuable quarter, avoid cleaning it—this can reduce its value. Instead, get it evaluated by a professional grading service like PCGS or NGC. These organizations can certify and grade your coin to determine its market value.
Conclusion
Finding a rare quarter in your change is like striking gold in everyday life. While the odds are slim, it’s not impossible. With millions of coins in circulation, it’s worth paying closer attention to the small change in your pocket or coin jar. A single coin could be worth hundreds—or even thousands—of dollars.
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