Washington quarters can hide serious value. Some dates, proof issues and error varieties are so scarce that high-grade examples have brought more than $70,000 at auction. This guide explains which Washington quarters to watch for and how to spot the features that make them valuable.
How to Spot Rare Washington Quarters
Focus first on three things: date and mint mark, condition and known varieties or errors. Low mintage dates and proof-only issues are the most likely to be worth the most money.
Look for sharp details on Washington’s hair and cheek, the presence and placement of mint marks, and any doubling, overdates, or unusual planchet issues.
Top 10 Rare Washington Quarters Worth More Than $70,000
Below are ten Washington quarter categories and varieties that collectors prize. In many cases, only the highest-graded examples or unique error pieces exceed the $70,000 mark.
1. 1932-S Washington Quarter (Key Date)
The 1932-S is the series’ key date because of its very low mintage. Even moderately circulated examples are scarce; high-grade Mint State (MS) pieces command the top prices.
Spot it by the small S mint mark on the reverse, just below the eagle. Strong hair detail and minimal wear are critical.
2. 1932-D Washington Quarter (Key Date)
The 1932-D is another key date with low mintage. The D mint mark appears on the reverse near the bottom, and top-graded MS examples are rare and valuable.
Full Head (FH) examples—where Washington’s hair shows full detail—are especially sought after.
3. 1936-S Proof Washington Quarter (Proof Rarity)
Proof coins from the 1930s were produced in very small numbers. A 1936-S proof in high grade, particularly with deep mirror fields (DMPL) or strong cameo contrast, can fetch exceptional prices.
4. 1937-S and 1938-S Proof Washington Quarters
Proof issues from 1937-S and 1938-S are scarce in pristine condition. Look for satiny fields, sharp devices, and proof-like mirrors. Graded proof examples often outperform business strikes.
5. Early Proofs With Cameo Contrast
Proof quarters labeled PR or PF with cameo (CAMEO or DCAM) contrast command premiums. Cameo contrast is visible as frosted devices against mirrored fields, and deep cameo proofs are rarer.
6. Doubled Die and Die Variety Quarters
Some Washington quarters show doubling on the date, motto or lettering. Doubled die errors are collectible because the doubling is a primary die feature, not post-strike damage.
Check for doubled letters or dates under magnification and compare to reference photos.
7. Overmint Mark or Overdate Varieties
Overdate or repunched mint mark varieties happen when dies were altered or overpunched. These can be subtle and require microscope inspection.
Collectors and graders will look for traces of the original digit or mint mark under magnification.
8. Full Head (FH) High-Grade Business Strikes
Many common-date quarters become rare at the very top condition. A common date with an FH designation in MS67+ can be worth far more than typical examples.
FH is earned when the sculptor’s lines on Washington’s hair are fully impressed; this is a critical factor in valuation.
9. Major Planchet or Striking Errors
Large planchet errors (wrong planchet type) or severe misstrikes can create unique, museum-quality pieces. Such errors are rare and attract strong bidding from advanced collectors.
Examples include broadstrikes, clipped planchets, or badly off-center strikes that still retain clear date and mint mark.
10. Early Brilliant Uncirculated and Gem Proofs Graded by Top Services
Coins graded by PCGS, NGC or ANACS with high numeric grades and premium designations (e.g., MS67, PR67DCAM) are often the ones crossing the $70,000 threshold.
Professional grading, slab condition and pedigree (auction history) all affect value.
Practical Tips for Spotting High-Value Washington Quarters
- Use a 10x loupe or microscope to inspect hair details and mint marks.
- Compare suspected varieties to reference guides or online databases.
- Check for Full Head (FH) and proof designations like DCAM/DMPL.
- Have suspect high-value coins graded by a reputable service.
- Beware of cleaned or altered coins—cleaning destroys value.
The Washington quarter design began in 1932 to mark George Washington’s 200th birthday. Key-date issues from that first year are among the series’ most valuable coins.
Real-World Example: A Small Discovery, Big Result
A collector purchased an estate lot of loose coins and found a well-struck 1932-D Washington quarter. After authentication and a professional grade confirming Full Head designation, the coin sold at auction for a five-figure price well above market for lower-grade examples.
This case shows how condition and correct identification can turn an ordinary find into a major sale.
When to Get a Washington Quarter Professionally Graded
Consider grading if the coin is a known key date, shows error characteristics, or appears to be an exceptionally high-grade business strike or proof. Grading provides authentication and a condition-grade that prospective buyers trust.
If you suspect a coin may be worth more than a few thousand dollars, the cost of grading is often justified.
Final Checklist Before You Buy or Sell
- Verify date and mint mark with magnification.
- Look for FH, proof cameo, or doubling characteristics.
- Consult recent auction records for realized prices of similar grade.
- Use professional grading for high-value pieces.
- Work with reputable dealers and auction houses for large sales.
Spotting rare Washington quarters takes patience, reference material, and a good eye. With practice and the right tools, you can identify coins with the potential to sell for more than $70,000.