If you’ve ever wondered which quarters could be worth more than face value, you might be surprised to learn that it’s not just old coins that hold significant value. There are numerous rare quarters worth money, including modern coins still in circulation. Their worth is often tied to factors such as series, condition, or mint date.
Rare Quarters: Why They’re Sought After
Rare quarters are highly coveted by coin collectors due to their scarcity, historical importance, and unique characteristics. These coins often fall into categories such as limited mintage issues, error coins, or those with significant design modifications. Examples of these valuable quarters include the 1932-D and 1932-S Washington Quarters, the 1896-S Barber Quarter, and the 1970-S Proof Washington Quarter with a doubled die obverse. Depending on their rarity and condition, these coins can fetch anywhere from a few hundred to several thousand dollars.
How to Identify Rare Quarters Worth Money
Knowing what to look for in your change can help you avoid letting a valuable quarter slip through your fingers. One of the simplest ways to spot a valuable quarter is by checking the date and mint mark. For instance, 1964 is a pivotal year, as it marks the last time silver quarters were struck. Quarters produced after this year may still be valuable, especially in Mint State condition or if they belong to a rare commemorative series.
1964 Denver Mint Mark George Washington Quarter
One of the most valuable types of U.S. quarters comes from 1964. These silver quarters are prized because of their higher silver content. The 1964 George Washington Quarter starts at a minimum value of $4.02, but its worth can increase based on the coin’s condition and mint mark.
In 1964, quarters were minted in only two U.S. locations: Philadelphia and Denver. Denver-minted quarters can be quickly identified by the “D” mint mark on the reverse side. This was the last year that the mint marks appeared on the reverse of Washington quarters. Philadelphia-issued coins typically lack mint marks, and their silver content often grants them a small premium over their face value. The high silver composition of these coins makes them some of the most valuable quarters around.
1965 MS67+ Washington Modern Quarter
The 1965 George Washington Quarter, graded at MS67, is another example of a rare quarter worth holding onto. These coins are particularly sought after by collectors due to their scarcity in such high grades. Only 50 known examples exist in MS67, and none are believed to be in better condition.
The year 1965 holds significance as it marked the first year the U.S. Mint transitioned to clad Washington Quarters, leaving behind the silver content. Quarters from 1965 that are in Mint State (MS65 or higher) are considered rare, especially in MS66 condition, with only a few thousand examples known to exist.
FAQs
What makes a quarter valuable?
A quarter’s value often depends on factors such as mint date, mint mark, condition, and whether it contains silver or has a unique design.
How do I identify rare quarters worth money?
Check the mint mark and date—coins from specific years like 1964 or with unique mint marks can hold greater value, especially if they are in Mint State condition.
Are modern quarters valuable?
Yes, some modern quarters can be worth money if they are in exceptional condition or belong to limited mintage series or have minting errors.