Many individuals overlook the potential treasures hidden in their spare change. Certain quarters, due to unique errors or historical significance, can be worth a substantial amount more than their face value.
In this article, we’ll explore some of these valuable quarters that could be hiding in your drawers right now.
1. 1983 Washington Quarter with Minting Error
A rare 1983 Washington quarter featuring a minting error was recently sold on eBay for $300. This quarter, minted in Denver, has an offset stamp with a filled and obscured “D” mintmark, making it valuable to collectors.
Similar Washington quarters from the initial 1932 mintage, especially those with a “D” for Denver, are considered rare and can fetch high prices. For example, a 1932-D Washington quarter in excellent condition sold for $89,000 in 2001.
2. 1965 Silver Planchet Error Quarter
In 1965, the U.S. Mint transitioned from silver to a copper-nickel clad composition for quarters. However, a few 1965 quarters were mistakenly struck on leftover 90% silver planchets from 1964. These error coins are highly valuable, with some fetching over $8,000 at auction.
To identify this error, weigh the coin: a standard 1965 quarter weighs about 5.67 grams, while the silver error coin weighs approximately 6.25 grams.
3. 1806 Draped Bust Quarter with Missing Serif
A rare 1806 Draped Bust quarter is potentially worth $58,750 due to a unique production error and its historical significance. With just 206,124 pieces minted, this coin is already valuable, but the distinguishing B-3 variety, marked by the missing serif on the number 1 of the date, adds to its allure.
Besides, it features 12 arrowheads on the reverse, making it more sought-after. Ranked as MS65 by the Numismatic Guaranty Corporation, this quarter is in near-perfect condition despite being over 200 years old.
4. 1955 Denver Mint Washington Quarter
A 1955 Denver-mint quarter sold for $40,800 due to its high PCGS grade of 67+. This coin’s value is attributed to its excellent condition and the quality of its strike, making it a rare find among collectors.
5. 1950 Deep Cameo Proof Washington Quarter
A 1950 deep cameo quarter, with a rating of 68/70, sold for $31,200, noted for its mirror-like finish. Deep cameo proofs from this era are rare, and their distinctive appearance makes them highly desirable among collectors.
6. 1932-D Washington Quarter
The most valuable, a 1932-D quarter, minted in Denver and rated 66/70, sold for $74,400 in 2018. This coin’s value is due to its low mintage and excellent preservation, making it a prized piece for collectors.
Summary Table of Valuable Quarters
Quarter | Year | Mint Mark | Notable Feature | Approximate Value |
---|---|---|---|---|
Washington Quarter with Minting Error | 1983 | D | Offset stamp, obscured mintmark | $300 |
Silver Planchet Error Quarter | 1965 | None | Struck on 90% silver planchet | Over $8,000 |
Draped Bust Quarter with Missing Serif | 1806 | None | Missing serif on date | $58,750 |
Denver Mint Washington Quarter | 1955 | D | High-grade condition | $40,800 |
Deep Cameo Proof Washington Quarter | 1950 | None | Mirror-like finish | $31,200 |
Washington Quarter | 1932 | D | Low mintage, excellent condition | $74,400 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- 1. How can I tell if my 1965 quarter is the rare silver error?
- Weigh the coin on a precise scale. A standard 1965 quarter weighs about 5.67 grams, while the rare silver error coin weighs approximately 6.25 grams.
- 2. What makes the 1932-D Washington quarter so valuable?
- The 1932-D quarter had a low mintage, and finding one in excellent condition is rare, significantly increasing its value among collectors.
- 3. Should I get my coin professionally graded?
- Yes! Graded coins often sell for more, as buyers trust the authenticity and quality assessed by professionals like PCGS or NGC.
- 4. Can I find valuable quarters in circulation?
- Absolutely! While rare, valuable quarters like the 2004 Wisconsin error or silver planchet errors occasionally show up in everyday change.
You could be holding onto a fortune without even realizing it! Quarters like the 2004 Wisconsin State Quarter Error or the 1932-D Washington Quarter can be worth thousands. Take a moment to check your change drawer, inspect your coin jars, and you might just discover a valuable piece hiding in plain sight.
I have several of the 1965 quarters probably 5 and I have the Wisconsin quarter to.