Have you ever spent a moment thinking about the values of the coins resting in your pocket? Some quarters among the millions in circulation are worth more than face value. These rare quarters have historical significance, minting errors, and low production numbers that give them great collector demand.
Most of us would ignore these treasures simply because they merge with the very ordinary change. But with a little knowledge and the proper discerning gaze, you would hope to come across a rare quarter that might be worth thousands of dollars.
| Quarter | Year | Defining Feature | Potential Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1932-D Washington Quarter | 1932 | Low mintage of only 436,800 | $100–$10,000+ |
| 2004 Wisconsin Quarter (Error) | 2004 | Extra leaf on the corn stalk | $300–$1,500 |
| 1970-S Washington Proof Quarter | 1970 | Struck on a foreign coin planchet | Up to $35,000 |
1932-D Washington Quarter:
This is perhaps the most collected quarter among coin collectors: It is one of the original Washington quarters, and it has a low mintage of only 436,800 at the Denver Mint, making it one of the rarest Washington quarters still in existence.
Not only does this coin represent a scarcity, but it also holds historical significance to the American collector as part of the entire numismatics scene. Finding a circulated example of this coin would put the owner anywhere from $100 to $1,000 in profit and, in uncirculated pristine condition, has been known to sell for well over $10,000.
The only thing to look for to identify this rare quarter is the “D” mintmark just under the eagle on the reverse. If you happen to discover a 1932-D quarter, it might be worth far more than just 25 cents.
Wisconsin Quarter 2004 With An Extra Leaf Error
Errors of minting make collectors fascinated, and the most famous one of these is the 2004 Wisconsin state quarter. Interestingly, this quarter is similar to the error of an extra leaf on the corn stalk found on its reverse side.
There are two known categories of this error:
- The “extra high leaf” variety
- The “extra low leaf” variety
Experts said an error happens when the coin dies gouging when minting cause these quarters to be fabulously surpassingly rare. So, if you happen to be a possessor of a 2004 Wisconsin quarter, then stare down real close onto the corn stalk found on the reverse side.
Depending on quality, it can be worth anywhere from $300 to $1,500. So be careful, small details such as an extra leaf can affect the coin’s value significantly, so check your quarters carefully.
1970-S Proof Quarter Struck on a Foreign Planchet:
Many of the rarest coins are the result of accidental minting errors, and the 1970-S Washington proof quarter perfectly exemplifies that. It was accidentally struck on the planchet of that meant for a Canadian coin, making it thinner and lighter than an average U.S. quarter.
These unusual features make the 1970-S proof quarter a rarity to collect. It is so rare that they have sold at auction in the past for as much as $35,000.
This would be determined by excellent weight and dimension consideration. A 1970-S proof quarter could sometimes just be found. Use a trusted professional numismatist to authenticate the coin and determine its value if there is some suspicion.
FAQS:
What are the ways that I can identify a Washington quarter from the year 1932-D?
Look for the letter D, indicating the mint, under the eagle on the reverse side.
Why is the Wisconsin quarter 2004 considered to be of value?
It has the unique die error of an extra leaf on the corn stalk.
How much will a 1970-S proof quarter be worth?
Under perfect conditions, it could sell upwards of $35,000.
What makes the quarter rare?
Low mintages or errors during minting or certain unique historical significance.
Where can sellers market rare quarters?
You can sell rare quarters via coin dealers, online auctions, or numismatic shows.