Washington Quarters: The Washington quarter debuted in 1932 to honor the 200th birthday of George Washington and has since become one of the most recognizable coins in American currency. Although billions have been produced over the decades, a small group of Washington quarters stand apart due to limited mintages, minting errors, silver content, and collector demand. As we move through 2026, these rare quarters continue to attract strong interest from collectors and investors alike.
Understanding which quarters are valuable helps collectors focus their search and avoid overlooking important details that can dramatically increase a coin’s worth.
Origins and Collectability of Washington Quarters
John Flanagan designed the Washington quarter with a dignified portrait of Washington on the obverse and an eagle on the reverse. Early issues were struck in 90 percent silver, adding intrinsic value on top of collectability. Over time, changes in metal composition, minting techniques, and special programs introduced rare variations that collectors now prize.
Early Key Date Washington Quarters
The 1932-D Washington quarter is one of the most important coins in the series. With a mintage of just over 436,000, it is scarce in all grades and especially valuable in well-preserved condition.
The 1932-S quarter follows closely behind, with an even lower mintage of approximately 408,000. Its scarcity and historical importance make it a centerpiece of advanced collections.
Rare Error Quarters from the Silver Era
The 1937 doubled die obverse quarter displays noticeable doubling on Washington’s profile, making it one of the earliest and most desirable error quarters.
The 1942-D quarter is valued not only for its lower mintage but also for its wartime context, adding historical appeal.
The 1950-D/S overmintmark quarter is a standout variety where one mintmark was stamped over another, creating a highly collectible error.
The 1955 doubled die obverse quarter shows visible doubling on lettering, attracting strong demand from error coin specialists.
Transition and Special Mint Errors
The 1964-D quarter represents the final year of 90 percent silver Washington quarters, making high-grade examples especially popular.
The 1965 transitional error quarter is one of the rarest modern U.S. coins, struck on silver planchets by mistake during the shift to clad coinage.
The 1966 Special Mint Set quarter features a unique finish and limited distribution, setting it apart from regular circulation strikes.
Proof and Bicentennial Varieties
The 1970-S proof quarter struck on a silver planchet is an extremely rare error that commands strong prices.
The 1971-S proof quarter remains desirable due to its limited proof mintage and collector demand.
The 1974 doubled die obverse quarter adds another notable error to the series.
The 1976 Bicentennial silver quarter, with its colonial drummer reverse and dual date, is especially valuable in silver and high-grade examples.
Modern Washington Quarter Rarities
The 1982 no mintmark quarter from Philadelphia is a well-known modern rarity that continues to rise in value.
The 1983 doubled die reverse quarter shows strong doubling on reverse lettering.
The 1995 doubled die obverse quarter gained attention as collectors became more aware of modern error coins.
The 1996-S silver proof quarter is valued for its silver content and limited proof production.
State Quarters and Beyond
- The 1999-P Delaware spitting horse quarter features a dramatic die crack that makes it one of the most famous state quarter errors.
- The 2000-P South Carolina error quarter stands out due to unusual design anomalies.
- The 2004-D Wisconsin extra leaf quarter, both high and low leaf varieties, remains one of the most valuable modern quarters.
- The 2005 Minnesota doubled die quarter is known for extra tree details on the reverse.
- The 2009-D District of Columbia quarter includes rare error varieties that increase its value.
- The 2010 Hot Springs quarter error is a notable modern find.
- The 2019-W Washington quarter, struck at the West Point Mint, is one of the most important modern circulation quarters due to its limited release.
- The 2021 Crossing the Delaware quarter includes rare error varieties that collectors continue to pursue in 2026.
Final Verdict
The Washington quarter series offers one of the richest and most exciting collecting experiences in U.S. numismatics. From iconic key dates like the 1932-D to modern standouts such as the 2019-W, these quarters combine history, rarity, and strong market demand. In 2026, they remain highly desirable assets for both seasoned collectors and newcomers searching for valuable coins in circulation.
Disclaimer
Coin values vary based on condition, authenticity, market trends, and professional grading. This article is for informational purposes only and does not guarantee the value of any coin. Always consult certified coin dealers or professional grading services before making buying or selling decisions.
