Most Washington quarters are worth just 25 cents. But in 2026, a select group of rare dates, mint errors, and high-grade examples are commanding hundreds—or even thousands—of dollars.
The Washington quarter has been part of American life since 1932. Over the decades, silver issues, mint mark varieties, and modern error coins have created exciting opportunities for collectors. If you know what to look for, that spare change in your drawer could hold surprising value.
Here are 9 rare Washington quarters collectors are actively seeking in 2026.
1. 1932-D Washington Quarter
The Key Date Every Collector Wants
The 1932-D is one of the lowest-mintage coins in the series.
- Scarce in all grades
- Extremely rare in Mint State
- Silver composition (90% silver)
Even circulated examples can sell for strong premiums.
2. 1932-S Washington Quarter
Another Low-Mintage Classic
Like the Denver issue, the 1932-S had limited production. High-grade examples are especially difficult to find because many entered heavy circulation during the Great Depression.
Collectors consider this coin essential for completing a full Washington quarter set.
3. 1943 & 1944 High-Grade Silver Quarters
Wartime Silver in Top Condition
While millions were minted, most 1940s quarters were heavily used. Coins graded MS65 or higher with full luster are scarce.
Collectors pay premiums for:
- Strong strike quality
- Clean surfaces
- Bright silver shine
Condition makes a dramatic difference in value.
4. 1950s Doubled Die Varieties
Visible Doubling Equals Higher Demand
Certain Washington quarters show doubled lettering or dates caused by die misalignment.
The stronger the visible doubling, the more collectors are willing to pay. These varieties are popular because the error is easy to see without advanced tools.
5. Overmint Mark Varieties (OMM)
A Minting Mistake with Big Appeal
In earlier decades, mint marks were punched manually. Sometimes one mint mark was stamped over another.
Examples include:
- D over S
- S over D
These subtle varieties require magnification but can significantly increase a coin’s value.
6. 1964 Silver Quarter (High Grade)
The Final Year of 90% Silver
1964 marked the last year Washington quarters were struck in 90% silver before switching to clad composition.
High-grade 1964 quarters with:
- Minimal contact marks
- Prooflike surfaces
- Strong eye appeal
…remain hot items in 2026.
7. 1983-P & 1983-D Condition Rarities
Modern Coins That Surprise Collectors
Few people saved rolls of quarters in the early 1980s. As a result, pristine examples are harder to find today.
High-grade coins from 1983 can command surprising premiums, even though they are not silver.
8. State Quarter Error Coins (1999–2008)
Popular Modern Collectibles
The State Quarters Program revived interest in coin collecting nationwide.
Valuable errors include:
- Off-center strikes
- Major die cracks
- Struck-through errors
- Dramatic design breaks
Some verified error coins sell for hundreds or more, depending on severity.
9. Rare Proof Quarter Errors
Collector Coins with Unexpected Flaws
Proof quarters are specially made for collectors, but occasionally errors occur.
Desirable traits include:
- Deep cameo contrast
- Missing design elements
- Unusual striking anomalies
High-grade proof coins stored in original packaging often perform well in the market.
Quick Value Comparison Table
| Quarter Type | Potential Value Range |
|---|---|
| 1932-D / 1932-S | Hundreds to thousands |
| 1940s High Grade | $100+ in top condition |
| Doubled Die | Varies, often strong premiums |
| 1964 Silver (MS65+) | $50+ and higher |
| State Quarter Errors | $100+ depending on error |
How to Spot a Valuable Washington Quarter
Before spending your change, check:
- The date (especially 1932)
- The mint mark (D or S under the eagle on older coins)
- Signs of doubling or unusual details
- Silver edge (solid silver color = pre-1965)
- Overall condition and luster
Important: Never clean a coin. Cleaning reduces collector value.
FAQs About Rare Washington Quarters
1. Are all silver Washington quarters valuable?
They are worth at least their silver content, but rare dates and high grades bring much more.
2. What is the rarest Washington quarter?
The 1932-D and 1932-S are considered key dates in the series.
3. How can I tell if my quarter is silver?
Pre-1965 quarters have a solid silver-colored edge without a copper stripe.
4. Are modern quarters worth collecting?
Yes. High-grade examples and verified error coins can carry strong premiums.
5. Should I get my coin professionally graded?
If it appears rare or in exceptional condition, professional grading can confirm authenticity and increase buyer confidence.
Final Thoughts: Don’t Ignore Your Spare Change
Washington quarters remain one of America’s most collectible coin series in 2026. From early silver key dates to modern mint errors, valuable pieces still surface in circulation and old collections.
Take a closer look at your quarters before spending them. With the right combination of date, mint mark, condition, and rarity, an ordinary-looking coin could turn into a hidden treasure.