Have you ever thought about whether the loose change in your pocket might actually hold hidden value? Although most quarters are simply worth their face value of 25 cents, some rare versions can be worth thousands to collectors. The difference lies in unique identifying features that set these valuable coins apart from the average ones. Here are three specific marks to watch for that could potentially increase the value of your quarter to as much as $35,000.
1. The 1932-D Washington Quarter Mint Mark
What to Look For: Check for a small “D” mint mark located on the reverse side of the coin, positioned just beneath the eagle and above the “R” in “QUARTER DOLLAR.”
Why It’s Valuable: The 1932-D Washington Quarter was produced in Denver and has a remarkably low mintage of only 436,800 coins. This limited availability makes it one of the most sought-after dates in the Washington Quarter series. Coins in pristine condition can fetch prices as high as $35,000 at auction.
Tip for Verification: Look for coins that exhibit minimal wear and still possess a significant amount of their original luster. Having the coin authenticated by a professional grading service can help verify its value.
Coin Specifications
| Country: | United States of America |
| Year Of Issue: | 1932 |
| Denomination: | Quarter Dollar (25 Cents USD) |
| Mint Mark: | D (Denver) |
| Mintage: | 436,800 |
| Alloy: | 90% Silver, 10% Copper |
| Weight: | 6.30 g |
| Diameter: | 24.30 mm |
| Edge: | Reeded |
| OBV Designer: | John Flanagan |
| REV Designer: | John Flanagan |
| Quality: | Business Strike |
2. The 1932-S Washington Quarter Mint Mark
What to Look For: Look for a small “S” mint mark positioned in the same location as the 1932-D, on the reverse side beneath the eagle.
Why It’s Valuable: The 1932-S was minted in San Francisco and has an even lower mintage of just 408,000 coins, making it rarer than its Denver counterpart. High-quality specimens are particularly coveted and can be valued at up to $30,000.
Tip for Verification: Examine the coin for sharp details and minimal surface scratches. Obtaining an official grade from a coin grading service can enhance its marketability.
Coin Specifications
| Country: | United States of America |
| Year Of Issue: | 1932 |
| Denomination: | Quarter Dollar (25 Cents USD) |
| Mint Mark: | S (San Francisco) |
| Mintage: | 408,000 |
| Alloy: | 90% Silver, 10% Copper |
| Weight: | 6.25 g |
| Diameter: | 24.30 mm |
| Edge: | Reeded |
| OBV Designer: | John Flanagan |
| REV Designer: | John Flanagan |
| Quality: | Business Strike |
3. The 1965 Silver Quarter Error
What to Look For: Look for a 1965 quarter that has a silver appearance and weighs approximately 6.25 grams, which is heavier than the standard weight of 5.67 grams.
Why It’s Valuable: In 1965, the U.S. Mint shifted from using silver to a copper-nickel clad composition for quarters. However, a small number of 1965 quarters were mistakenly struck on silver planchets that were meant for the earlier 90% silver coins. These error coins are incredibly rare and can be valued at $7,000 or more, depending on their condition.
Tip for Verification: Utilize a precise scale to verify the coin’s weight. A professional appraisal can confirm whether it is indeed the rare silver error.
Coin Specifications
| Country: | United States of America |
| Year Of Issue: | 1965 |
| Denomination: | Quarter Dollar (25 Cents USD) |
| Mint Mark: | None (Philadelphia and Denver) |
| Mintage: | 1,819,717,540 |
| Alloy: | Outer layers of copper-nickel (75% copper and 25% nickel) bonded to a pure copper inner core. |
| Weight: | 5.67 g |
| Diameter: | 24.30 mm |
| Edge: | Reeded |
| OBV Designer: | John Flanagan |
| REV Designer: | John Flanagan |
| Quality: | Business Strike |
How to Protect and Sell Your Valuable Quarter
Handle with Care: Always hold coins by their edges to prevent fingerprints and minimize wear.
Get Professional Grading: Consider submitting the coin to a reputable grading service such as PCGS or NGC for authentication.
Consult a Numismatic Expert: Before selling, seek advice from a trusted coin dealer or numismatist to gain a better understanding of its true value.
Conclusion
Discovering one of these rare quarters is akin to striking it rich in the world of numismatics. By carefully examining mint marks and distinctive features, you may find that an ordinary coin in your possession is actually a prized collector’s item. So, the next time you sift through your spare change, take a moment to inspect those quarters you might just be holding a small fortune!