Could you be unknowingly tossing away a small fortune? That quarter you casually drop in a vending machine or leave in your change jar might be worth significantly more than 25 cents. Some rare quarters, due to minting errors, historical significance, or limited production, can be worth as much as $50,000. With a little knowledge, you could start identifying these hidden treasures right in your spare change.
1932-D and 1932-S Washington Quarters
These were the first years of Washington quarters, and mintages from the Denver and San Francisco mints were very limited. A well-preserved version can fetch several thousand dollars.
1965 Silver Quarter
Although the U.S. stopped using silver in quarters after 1964, a few 1965 quarters were mistakenly struck on silver blanks. These rare errors can be worth up to $50,000, depending on the coin’s condition.
2004 Wisconsin Quarter with Extra Leaf
Some 2004 Wisconsin state quarters feature an additional “high” or “low” leaf on the corn stalk. This mint error makes the coin highly collectible, with values reaching up to $2,000.
1970-S Proof Quarter with a Misprint
A rare version of this proof quarter shows a small but noticeable error in the design, with part of the date doubled. This quarter can sell for thousands, especially in high grades.
1999 Delaware Spitting Horse Quarter
This mint error shows what looks like a “spit” coming from the horse’s mouth on the Delaware state quarter. While not as valuable as others, this error coin is still sought after by collectors and can fetch around $500.
Before you throw your quarters away or overlook them, take a closer look! There’s a chance that one of them could be a rare and valuable piece worth up to $50,000. Whether it’s a silver error, an old Washington quarter, or a unique state quarter with a minting mistake, your change could be hiding a fortune. Always check your coins and consider having them appraised—you could be sitting on untapped wealth without even knowing it!
FAQ’s:
What makes a quarter valuable?
Quarters become valuable due to minting errors, low mintage, historical significance, or being struck on rare materials like silver.
Which rare quarters should I look for?
Look for the 1932-D and 1932-S Washington Quarters, 1965 Silver Quarter, 2004 Wisconsin Quarter with an extra leaf, and 1970-S Proof Quarter with errors.
How can I identify a valuable quarter?
Check for unique mint marks, misprints, doubled dates, or errors like extra design elements on state quarters.
Are silver quarters worth more?
Yes, especially quarters mistakenly struck on silver blanks after 1964, like the rare 1965 Silver Quarter.
Where can I sell or appraise rare quarters?
Visit a coin dealer, numismatic expert, or use online platforms to appraise and sell rare quarters.