13 Most Valuable Quarters Still in Circulation

Finding a rare quarter in your pocket change can be exciting and profitable. This guide lists 13 of the most valuable quarters you might still encounter, explains how to identify them, and gives practical next steps for sellers and collectors.

13 Most Valuable Quarters Still in Circulation

1. 1932-D Washington Quarter

   This is a key date in the Washington quarter series and is scarce in circulated grades. High-grade examples can command thousands to tens of thousands of dollars, so any 1932-D should be authenticated and graded.

2. 1932-S Washington Quarter

   Like the 1932-D, the San Francisco 1932-S is uncommon. Even worn specimens have collector interest; uncirculated examples sell for premium prices.

3. 1916 Standing Liberty Quarter

   The 1916 Standing Liberty is a key issue, especially Type 1 examples with full details. Condition is everything; a well-preserved 1916 can be worth a lot to collectors.

4. 1896-S Barber Quarter

   Barber quarters from low-mintage San Francisco years are desirable. The 1896-S is a recognized key date with value rising quickly as grade improves.

5. Seated Liberty and Early Bust Quarters

   Seated Liberty and early Draped Bust or Capped Bust quarters are rare survivors in circulation. Any example of these 19th- or early-19th-century types should be examined by a specialist.

6. Any Pre-1965 90% Silver Quarter

   Quarters dated 1964 or earlier contain 90% silver and have melt value at minimum. Silver spot price and condition determine the market value, which can exceed face value by a large margin.

7. 2004-D Wisconsin Extra Leaf Varieties

   The 2004-D Wisconsin state quarter has two famous varieties called Extra Leaf High and Extra Leaf Low. Certified high-grade specimens of these varieties have sold for significant premiums to collectors.

8. Modern Mint Error Quarters

   Error coins such as off-center strikes, double strikes, broadstrikes, and clipped planchets can be worth much more than face value. Value depends on error type, size, and eye appeal.

9. Low-Mintage State and Territory Quarters

   Some state quarters had low mintages or regional die varieties that boost value. Check mintage numbers and look for unusual design markers or die doubling.

10. Proof and Special Mint Quarters Found in Circulation

    Occasional proof or specially struck coins escape into circulation. If you find a mirror-like proof quarter with sharp details, have it examined; proofs often carry collector premiums.

11. 1970-S and Other Scarce Proof Strikes

    Certain proof strikes and small-run issues from the 20th century are scarce in circulation. A suspiciously high-grade, deeply mirrored coin from this era warrants expert review.

12. State Quarter Die Varieties Worth Noting

    Many state quarters developed popular die varieties collectors chase. Examples include doubled dies, repunched mintmarks, or unusual planchet laminations that make the coin collectible.

13. High-Grade Common Dates

    Even common-date quarters can reach high values in gem or flawless grades. If you think you have a nearly perfect coin, grade and slab it before selling to unlock full market value.

How to Identify Valuable Quarters

Start with basic checks: date, mint mark, and condition. Use a magnifier to search for doubling, extra leaves, off-center strikes, or mintmark anomalies.

Practical ID checklist

• Look for dates before 1965 to find silver content.
• Check mint marks (D, S, CC) for low-mintage locations.
• Inspect the field and devices for doubling or errors.
• Compare to verified images of known varieties like the 2004-D Wisconsin Extra Leaf.

What To Do If You Find a Valuable Quarter

Do not clean the coin. Cleaning reduces value dramatically. Photograph the coin, note its date and mint mark, and keep it in a soft flip until you can get an expert opinion.

Where to get a second opinion

• Local coin dealers or reputable coin shops
• Professional grading services for authentication and grading
• Numismatic forums and reference books for comparison

Real-World Example

Case study: A family sorting decades of saved coins found a 1932-D Washington quarter in a jar of mixed change. After a dealer authenticated and had it graded, the family sold the slabbed coin through an auction house for a significant premium over face value.

That example shows why careful handling and expert grading matter. Even if a coin seems ordinary, small variations or good condition can make a big difference.

Final Practical Tips

• Keep coins in protective holders and avoid cleaning them.
• Document provenance and keep photos before sending coins away.
• Get multiple opinions for high-value finds and consider grading for long-term value.

Knowing the 13 most valuable quarters still in circulation helps you spot potential finds and take the right next steps. If you suspect you have a rare quarter, act carefully and consult professionals to maximize value.