Most quarters are worth just 25 cents. However, a few rare U.S. quarters have sold for thousands of dollars. The difference comes down to mint errors, low production numbers, and historical significance.
If you check your spare change carefully, you might find something valuable.
Rare Quarters to Look For
Some quarters stand out because of scarcity or mistakes during production.
- 1932-D Washington Quarter: Low mintage makes this one of the most sought after Washington quarters. High grade examples can sell for thousands.
- 1932-S Washington Quarter: Similar to the Denver version, this coin had limited production and strong collector demand.
- 1950-D/S Overmintmark: This error features a Denver mintmark stamped over a San Francisco mintmark. Collectors pay a premium for clear examples.
- 2004-D Wisconsin Extra Leaf Quarter: Some coins show an extra leaf on the corn stalk. Both the high leaf and low leaf varieties can bring significant value.
- 1970-S Proof Quarter Struck on a 1941 Canadian Quarter: This rare error coin has sold for substantial amounts at auction.
What Makes a Quarter Valuable
Not every old quarter is worth big money. Value depends on several factors:
- Mintage numbers: Fewer coins produced often means higher value
- Mint errors: Double dies, overmintmarks, and off center strikes increase demand
- Condition: Coins graded in mint state condition command the highest prices
- Silver content: Quarters minted before 1965 contain 90 percent silver
Professional grading can increase buyer confidence and resale value.
How to Check Your Quarters
Use these steps to evaluate your coins:
- Inspect dates and mintmarks carefully
- Compare your coin to verified images of known errors
- Weigh older coins to confirm silver content
- Consider third party grading for rare finds
Rare quarters continue to attract collectors. A careful look at your pocket change could reveal a coin worth far more than its face value.
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