The Washington Quarter coin, first introduced in 1932, is one of the most well-known and collected coins in the United States. Many coin enthusiasts seek out valuable variations of this coin. In this blog post, we’ll explore the four most valuable Washington Quarter coins worth money, and we’ll even include pictures for better clarity. Let’s dive in!
1. 1932-D Washington Quarter
The 1932-D Washington Quarter is among the rarest and most valuable Washington Quarters. Only around 436,800 of these coins were minted. This low mintage makes it highly sought after by collectors.
Why the 1932-D Washington Quarter Is Valuable
- Low Mintage: Only 436,800 were made.
- Condition Matters: Coins in higher grades can fetch a lot of money.
- Historical Significance: Being one of the first in the series adds to its appeal.
Collectors are always willing to pay a premium for well-preserved versions of this coin. A 1932-D quarter in excellent condition can fetch hundreds of dollars at auction.
Picture of 1932-D Washington Quarter
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2. 1932-S Washington Quarter
Next on our list is the 1932-S Washington Quarter. Similar to the 1932-D, this coin is also valuable due to its low mintage. Around 408,000 were made, which contributes to its rarity and desirability.
Why the 1932-S Washington Quarter Is Valuable
- Scarcity: Only 408,000 coins were minted.
- Highly Sought-After: Collectors search for this quarter specifically.
- Varied Value: The condition of the coin significantly impacts its price.
If you come across one of these, it’s worth getting it appraised. Even coins in poor condition can sell for higher than regular quarters.
Picture of 1932-S Washington Quarter
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How to Spot Valuable Washington Quarters
Knowing how to spot valuable Washington Quarters is essential for collectors. Here are some tips to help you identify high-value coins:
- Mintmarks: The mintmark on the coin will tell you where it was made. Check for coins with mintmarks like “D” or “S” to find rare coins.
- Year and Condition: Older coins or those in mint condition are worth more.
- Features: Pay attention to the design and any errors that may have occurred during minting.
3. 1942 Washington Quarter with Over Mintmark
The 1942 Washington Quarter with an over mintmark is a rare coin due to its unique minting error. The over mintmark occurs when one mintmark is stamped over another. In this case, it’s typically the “D” mintmark over the “S” mintmark.
Why the 1942 Over Mintmark Washington Quarter Is Valuable
- Minting Error: The over mintmark error makes it highly desirable.
- Rare: This specific error is difficult to find.
- Collector Demand: Coin collectors actively look for mint errors to complete their collections.
The 1942 Washington Quarter with over mintmark is considered a treasure by many coin collectors and can sell for several hundred dollars or more depending on its condition.
Picture of 1942 Over Mintmark Washington Quarter
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4. 1936 Double Die Obverse Washington Quarter
The 1936 Double Die Obverse Washington Quarter is another rare variation due to a minting error. The “double die” error occurs when the die is misaligned during the minting process, creating doubled images on the coin’s front.
Why the 1936 Double Die Obverse Washington Quarter Is Valuable
- Double Die Error: The misalignment of the die is what makes it valuable.
- Rare Find: This coin is difficult to find in good condition.
- High Demand: Collectors pay a premium for error coins.
A 1936 Double Die Obverse quarter can be worth a significant amount, especially if it is in near-mint condition. If you find one, you could be looking at a coin worth thousands.
Picture of 1936 Double Die Obverse Washington Quarter
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How to Care for Your Valuable Washington Quarters
If you are lucky enough to own any of these valuable Washington Quarters, it’s essential to take proper care of them. Here are some tips:
Proper Storage
- Use protective cases: Place your coins in individual holders to prevent damage.
- Store in a cool, dry place: Avoid storing coins in humid or hot areas, as this can cause corrosion.
Handling with Care
- Avoid touching the coin: Handle coins by their edges to prevent oils from your fingers damaging the surface.
- Cleaning: Never clean your coins with harsh chemicals. Cleaning can lower their value.
By storing and handling your valuable Washington Quarters properly, you ensure that they maintain their worth for years to come.
FAQs
1. What makes a Washington Quarter valuable?
Washington Quarters are valuable due to their rarity, minting errors, and condition.
2. How do I find out if my Washington Quarter is valuable?
Check the year, mintmark, and any potential errors. Higher-condition coins are usually worth more.
3. Can I clean my valuable Washington Quarter?
It’s not recommended to clean valuable coins as it can decrease their value.
4. How can I sell my valuable Washington Quarters?
You can sell valuable coins through coin dealers, auctions, or online marketplaces like eBay.
5. Are there other rare Washington Quarters worth money?
Yes, there are several other rare and valuable Washington Quarters depending on minting errors and condition.