10 Most Valuable Washington Quarter Coins Worth Money

The Washington quarter is one of the most recognizable coins in U.S. history. First minted in 1932 to celebrate George Washington’s 200th birthday, this iconic coin features the image of the first president of the United States on the obverse (front) and a majestic eagle on the reverse (back). While most Washington quarters are worth their face value of 25 cents, some are highly valuable due to rare mintmarks, unique features, and limited production runs.

If you have a collection of Washington quarters or are considering starting one, some of these coins can be worth thousands of dollars. Below, we’ll explore the 10 most valuable Washington quarter coins and why they are worth so much money. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just starting, these coins could be worth more than you think!

1. 1932-D Washington Quarter – A Rare Mintmark Coin

The 1932-D Washington quarter is one of the most valuable and sought-after coins in the entire series. It was minted in Denver and is considered rare due to its low mintage. The 1932-D is a standout because, in comparison to other years of the series, far fewer were produced, which makes it highly collectible and valuable.

• Value: A 1932-D Washington quarter in good condition can be worth around $500 to $800. In higher grades, particularly MS-65 or higher, it can fetch between $5,000 and $10,000 or more, depending on its quality and demand.

2. 1932-S Washington Quarter – Another Rare Mintmark Coin

The 1932-S Washington quarter, minted in San Francisco, is another rare coin that holds significant value. Like the 1932-D, the 1932-S quarter has a low mintage, making it a rare find for collectors. Its rarity, combined with its historical significance as the first year the Washington quarter was produced, adds to its appeal.

• Value: A 1932-S Washington quarter in good condition typically ranges from $400 to $700. In high-grade specimens, especially MS-65 or better, the value can rise to $10,000 or more, depending on the coin’s condition.

3. 1964 Washington Quarter – The Last of the Silver Quarters

The 1964 Washington quarter holds a special place in history as the last year the quarter was made with 90% silver. After 1964, the U.S. Mint transitioned to producing quarters with a copper-nickel composition. Because of its silver content, the 1964 quarter is still highly valuable, particularly for those interested in collecting silver coins.

• Value: A 1964 Washington quarter in good condition is typically worth around $8 to $15, based on its silver content. However, in excellent or uncirculated condition, it can be worth $30 to $100 or more, especially if it has been well-preserved.

4. 1936 Washington Quarter (With Full Bands)

The 1936 Washington quarter is a classic coin in the series, and it becomes much more valuable when it has Full Bands on the reverse. The term “Full Bands” refers to the condition of the horizontal bands on the eagle’s shield on the reverse. If these bands are fully visible and crisp, the coin becomes a much more valuable and sought-after example.

• Value: A 1936 Washington quarter in good condition is typically worth around $10 to $20. However, a Full Bands version can easily be worth $100 to $500 or more, depending on its grade.

5. 1937 Washington Quarter (With Full Bands)

Much like the 1936 Washington quarter, the 1937 version can also be more valuable if it features Full Bands on the reverse. This specific feature is highly prized by collectors, and coins with it are often worth much more than standard coins from the same year.

• Value: A 1937 Washington quarter in good condition might be worth around $10 to $15, but a Full Bands example can fetch anywhere between $100 to $1,000, depending on its condition and rarity.

6. 1943 Washington Quarter – A Wartime Silver Coin

The 1943 Washington quarter is particularly interesting because it was minted during World War II when the U.S. government was still using 90% silver for coins. These wartime silver quarters are always in high demand due to their silver content, historical context, and relatively low mintage.

• Value: A 1943 Washington quarter in good condition generally ranges from $10 to $20. In higher grades, particularly in MS-65 or higher, the value can go up to $100 or more.

7. 1950 Washington Quarter – Rare in High Grades

While the 1950 Washington quarter is not particularly rare in terms of mintage, it is valuable when found in higher grades. Coins from this year tend to be more valuable in gem-quality conditions, and collectors are particularly interested in well-preserved examples.

• Value: A 1950 Washington quarter in good condition is worth about $5 to $10. However, in MS-65 or higher, it can fetch anywhere between $100 and $500 or more, depending on the coin’s quality.

8. 1934 Washington Quarter (With Full Bands)

The 1934 Washington quarter is another year where Full Bands versions are especially valuable. This coin, featuring George Washington on the obverse and a majestic eagle on the reverse, is rare in top-quality grades, and those with clear Full Bands can command a premium price.

• Value: A 1934 Washington quarter in good condition is typically worth around $15 to $25. However, a coin with Full Bands can easily fetch $100 to $500, or even more if it is in a higher grade.

9. 1935 Washington Quarter (With Full Bands)

The 1935 Washington quarter, particularly with Full Bands on the reverse, is highly prized by collectors. Similar to other quarters with this feature, the sharp detail of the bands on the eagle’s shield makes the coin more valuable. The 1935 quarter is relatively common, but it’s the Full Bands version that stands out.

• Value: A 1935 Washington quarter in good condition is typically worth around $10 to $20, but one with Full Bands can be worth anywhere from $100 to $500 or more, depending on its condition.

10. 1976 Bicentennial Washington Quarter – A Collector’s Favorite

The 1976 Bicentennial Washington quarter was issued to commemorate the 200th anniversary of the United States. Although it’s not particularly rare, the coin is highly valued by collectors due to its historical significance and its unique reverse design, which features a drummer boy, the Liberty Bell, and the date “1776-1976.” Coins in excellent or proof condition are especially popular among collectors.

• Value: A standard 1976 Bicentennial quarter is worth only its face value of 25 cents. However, proof and uncirculated examples in high grades can be worth $10 to $50, or even more for those with special characteristics like an error or unique features.

Factors That Affect the Value of Washington Quarters

Several factors can influence the value of a Washington quarter:

1. Rarity: Quarters with lower mintage numbers, particularly those with mintmarks like “D” (for Denver) or “S” (for San Francisco), tend to be more valuable.
2. Condition: Coins in better condition (especially uncirculated or proof coins) are worth more than those with wear and damage.
3. Mintmark: A mintmark shows where the coin was minted, and quarters with rare mintmarks can significantly increase in value.
4. Special Features: Coins with Full Bands on the reverse or other unique features are highly valued by collectors.
5. Historical Context: Certain coins, such as those minted during wartime or to commemorate significant events, tend to have higher value.

Conclusion: Washington Quarters and Their Lasting Value

Washington quarters are not only a staple of U.S. currency, but many of them are also highly collectible and valuable. Whether you’re looking for rare mintmarks, error coins, or quarters from specific years, there’s plenty of opportunity to find valuable pieces from this iconic coin series. Be sure to carefully examine any Washington quarters you come across, as you might have a hidden gem worth far more than its face value! Happy collecting!

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