Washington quarters are a staple in American coin collecting, but a few rare examples can reach five-figure and even six-figure prices. This guide explains nine rare Washington quarter types that can be worth more than $50,000 and shows how to spot them.
Why some Washington quarters become rare
Rarity for Washington quarters depends on mintage, surviving population, mint error, and condition. Even common dates can be valuable if they show an unusual error or are preserved in exceptional grade.
Collectors and grading services determine market value, so accurate identification and professional grading are often required before a coin can reach the highest prices.
How to inspect Washington quarters safely
Use a magnifier (10x loupe) and good light. Hold the coin by the rim to avoid fingerprints and use cotton gloves if possible.
- Check the obverse and reverse for doubling, repunched mint marks, and overdates.
- Note the mint mark location and any irregularities near lettering and devices.
- Record wear, scratch patterns, and luster for grading reference.
9 Rare Washington quarters valued more than $50,000
Below are nine coin categories or specific issues in the Washington quarter series that can reach six figures in top condition or when they show certain errors. For each, you get spotting tips.
1. 1932 Washington Quarters (Key Date 1932-D)
The 1932-D is a key date with low original mintage. High-grade mint state examples are scarce and often sell for well over $50,000.
How to spot it:
- Look for a small D mint mark on the reverse below the wreath and to the right of the torch.
- Check for full detail on Washington’s hair and cheek; full mint-state surfaces bring the premium.
2. 1932 Washington Quarters (Key Date 1932-S)
The 1932-S is similarly scarce. Proof and exceptionally high-grade circulation strikes command the highest prices.
How to spot it:
- Find the small S mint mark near the same location as the D.
- Proof surfaces look mirror-like on the fields with frosted devices.
3. Early Proof Washington Quarters (1932 Proofs)
Early proofs from the first year of the series are scarce in top grades. Certified proof coins with deep mirrors and minimal hairlines can pass the $50,000 mark.
How to spot it:
- Mirror-like fields with sharply frosted relief.
- Look for “S” mint mark and proof toning patterns that appear naturally aged.
4. High-Grade 1930s Mint State Washington Quarters
Several 1930s dates in MS66 and above are extremely rare. Condition is the main driver of value for these collector pieces.
How to spot it:
- Sharp device detail with original luster across the surfaces.
- Minimal contact marks and no rim nicks.
5. Doubled Die Obverse and Reverse Varieties
Doubled dies can dramatically raise value when authenticated. Doubling often shows as doubled lettering, dates, or design elements.
How to spot it:
- Use a loupe to check for doubled letters in UNITED STATES, LIBERTY, or the date.
- Confirm with reputable variety guides or a third-party grading service.
6. Repunched or Repunched Mint Mark Varieties
Repunched mint marks (RPMs) occur when the mint mark was punched more than once. Strong, visible secondary impressions increase collector interest.
How to spot it:
- Inspect the mint mark area for shadows or off-center secondary marks.
- Photograph and compare to known RPM examples for confirmation.
7. Struck Through and Broadstrike Error Quarters
Struck-through planchets with embedded material or broadstrike coins can be rare and valuable when dramatic.
How to spot it:
- Check for missing elements, unusual fields, or flattened rims that indicate broadstriking.
- Note any foreign material impressions on the surface.
8. Off-Center and Clipped Planchet Quarters
Off-center strikes and clipped planchets are popular errors. Large offsets and symmetrical clips are the most valuable.
How to spot it:
- Measure the degree of off-centering; 20% or more is visually obvious and worth investigating.
- Symmetry and whether the date is omitted affect rarity and value.
9. Pattern and Experimental Washington Quarters
Pattern pieces and experimental strikes from the mint are extremely scarce. These are often museum-quality and command high prices.
How to spot it:
- Patterns often show unusual finishes, edge types, or design trials not used in circulation.
- Authentication by specialists is essential for these pieces.
Some Washington quarters from 1932 and certain dramatic error varieties have sold for six figures at auction when certified in top grade or confirmed as rare errors.
Small real-world case study
A collector discovered an old coin lot at an estate sale and found a worn 1932-S Washington quarter in a small box. After careful cleaning avoidance and professional grading, the coin was confirmed as a high-grade example and later sold at auction for more than $50,000.
This case shows the importance of careful handling, expert identification, and third-party grading when you suspect you have a rare Washington quarter.
Next steps for collectors
If you think you have one of these rare Washington quarters, photograph both sides carefully and seek a specialist opinion. Avoid polishing or attempting aggressive cleaning, as that destroys value.
Submit the coin to a reputable third-party grading service for authentication and grading before offering it for sale or auction.
With practice, a loupe, and a few reference guides, you can spot the red flags that indicate a Washington quarter might be worth far more than face value. Start with the mint mark, date, and any obvious doubling or strike anomalies.