If you’re a coin enthusiast, you may have wondered which quarters hold real value. While it’s commonly believed that only coins older than their face value are worth collecting, there are numerous uncommon quarters that are highly valuable. Quarters have always been popular among U.S. coin collectors due to their iconic designs and rich history, making them fascinating objects to explore.
This article covers nine of the most valuable quarters in U.S. history, some of which are incredibly rare and have significant historical importance. These coins showcase the evolution of American coinage and have captivated collectors for years. Let’s take a look at their unique designs, their historical context, and what has made them so valuable.
9 Most Valuable U.S. Quarters
1) 1964 Denver Mint Mark George Washington Quarter
The 1964 Washington quarters are especially valuable due to their higher silver content compared to previous coins. While these quarters typically have a base value of around $4.02, their worth can rise depending on factors such as condition and mint mark. In 1964, quarters were minted at only two U.S. mints: Denver and Philadelphia. The Denver Mint’s coins feature the “D” mint mark, easily distinguishing them from Philadelphia’s unmarked coins, which tend to carry a slight premium due to their rarity.
2) 1965 MS67+ Washington Modern Quarter
This 1965 quarter is particularly rare, graded at MS67+ with the “GEM BU” designation from the PCGS, meaning it is a “Gem Brilliant Uncirculated” coin. Only ten coins from this year were graded in such exceptional condition. The finest of these coins fetched a remarkable $12,500 at auction in January 2005, setting a record for the highest price ever paid for a 1965 quarter.
3) 1971-S Washington Quarter
The 1971-S Washington Quarter, stamped at the San Francisco Mint, is a collector’s favorite, especially in high-grade conditions. While this coin is common in most grades, those in Mint State (MS+) condition are highly sought after. The 1971-S Proof Washington Quarter, in particular, is scarce in grades PR68 Deep Cameo or higher. The coin features George Washington’s image on the obverse, and the reverse depicts an eagle clutching logs, a design used from 1964 to 1998.
4) 1967 SMS Washington Quarter
This quarter, produced as part of the 1967 Special Mint Set (SMS), is rare due to its “deep cameo” finish. The coin, graded SP68 (Superb Gem) by PCGS, is one of only four coins from that year to achieve such a high grade. In January 2017, the coin sold for $4,465 at a Heritage Auctions event, showcasing its desirability among collectors.
5) 1982 Washington Quarter
Surprisingly, the 1982 Washington Quarters are valuable despite their relative youth. These coins were minted during the American recession, a time when many people chose to save rather than spend. In 1982 and 1983, the U.S. Mint didn’t produce conventional Mint Sets, making uncirculated Mint Sets harder to find. The 1982 Washington Quarter in MS65 condition is rare, while those in MS66 or MS67 are even more scarce.
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6) 1966 Washington Quarter
The 1966 Washington Quarter is notable for its deep cameo finish, which makes it extremely rare and valuable. Graded MS67 by PCGS, this coin is one of only two known to have achieved this grade. It was sold in October 2006 for $3,738 at an auction, reflecting its rarity and condition. The coin’s champagne-rose patina further adds to its appeal.
7) 1986-P Washington Quarter
The 1986-P Washington Quarter, minted at the Philadelphia Mint, is one of the finest examples of a modern quarter with value. While this coin was produced in large numbers, it’s difficult to find in pristine condition, as many were used for everyday transactions. Only ten examples of this coin have been graded in MS67 condition, making it highly desirable among collectors.
8) 1970-S Washington Quarter
The 1970-S Washington Quarter, with its proof 69 grade and Deep Cameo designation from PCGS, is a beautiful and rare coin. Produced at the San Francisco Mint, only thirty-one coins from this year are known to exist in such pristine condition. It was auctioned in November 2007 for $2,760 as part of a prominent collection, further cementing its value in the coin market.
9) 1965 Washington MS68 Quarter
The 1965 Washington Quarter holds significant historical importance as it marks the transition from silver to clad coins, with a composition of 75% copper and 25% nickel. Quarters from this year in Mint State are rare, especially those graded MS68. This coin is one of the finest examples of the 1965 clad quarter, and it has been sold for a substantial sum, proving its historical and collector’s value.
These quarters are just a glimpse into the world of rare and valuable U.S. coinage. Whether due to their design, minting errors, or historical significance, these coins are sought after by collectors and can fetch impressive sums at auctions. If you come across any of these quarters, you may be holding a piece of American history worth more than you think.