Treasure in Your Pocket
Imagine finding a quarter in your pocket that’s worth $26,000! It sounds wild, but some rare Washington Quarters can fetch big money. These coins, first minted in 1932, are still around, and a few special ones have collectors super excited. From low mint numbers to cool mistakes, these treasures might be hiding in your change. Read on to learn about nine rare Washington Quarters that could make you rich!
A Quick Peek at Washington Quarters
Washington Quarters hit the scene in 1932 to celebrate George Washington’s 200th birthday. Designed by John Flanagan, they show the first president on the front and an eagle on the back. Most are worth just 25 cents, but some stand out due to tiny production runs, minting errors, or top-notch condition. Coins from the 1930s and 1940s, especially, can be super valuable if they’re in great shape.
The Super Rare Finds
Some Washington Quarters are extra special. The 1932-D, minted in Denver, had only 436,800 made, making it a hot item. In top condition, like MS66, it can sell for $26,000 or more! The 1932-S from San Francisco, with just 408,000 coined, is another gem, also hitting $26,000 in near-perfect state. Then there’s the 1937 quarter, where three pristine MS66 coins are valued at $26,000 each by the PCGS, a big coin grading group.
Key Specs of Top Rare Washington Quarters
| Coin Type | Year | Mint Mark | Mintage | Top Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1932-D | 1932 | D | 436,800 | $26,000+ |
| 1932-S | 1932 | S | 408,000 | $26,000+ |
| 1937 (MS66) | 1937 | None | 19,696,000 | $26,000 |
| 1936-S (MS68) | 1936 | S | 3,828,000 | $26,500 |
Why They’re Worth So Much
What makes these quarters a big deal? Low mintage is a start, like the 1932-D and 1932-S with under half a million each. Condition is huge, too: coins graded MS66 or higher by pros like PCGS or NGC are rare and pricey. Minting mistakes, like the 1943 Double Die Reverse, where letters on the back look doubled, can also boost value to $26,000 or more in great shape. Silver content helps, too, since quarters before 1965 are 90% silver!
How to Spot a Winner
Think you’ve got one? Here’s how to check:
- Look at the date and mint mark, a tiny letter (D for Denver, S for San Francisco, none for Philadelphia) near the eagle or under Washington.
- Check condition: no scratches or wear means higher value.
- Spot errors: look for doubled letters or odd marks with a magnifying glass.
- For pre-1965 coins, a solid silver edge (no copper line) is a clue.
- Get it graded by experts at PCGS or NGC to know its real worth.
Finding one in your jar or wallet could be a game-changer!
What to Do If You Find One
Got a rare quarter? Don’t clean it, as that can lower its value. Keep it safe in a coin holder or plastic sleeve. Take it to a coin shop or get it checked by a pro grading service to confirm its grade and value. You could sell it through a dealer, auction house, or online, but always get an appraisal first. A $26,000 coin could pay for a car, a trip, or more! So, dig through your change, old boxes, or grandpa’s collection, you might just have a treasure in your pocket